President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced that increasing the number of fish caught and ensuring that the catch can be sold at fair prices, to both fisherman seeking to make a profit and consumers who prioritize affordability, is a key goal of this administration. The President made these remarks at the third iteration of 'Jazeera Holhuashi' Public Forum held at Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo this evening.
Speaking at the forum, the President made it clear that his administration is considering many avenues with regard to advancing the fishing industry and increasing the benefits it yields to the broader Maldivian society. He noted that fisheries still remain the industry which provides the highest direct capital to Maldivians, noting that MIFCO alone spent approximately MVR 813 million purchasing the catch from local fisherman during the past year.
The President also disclosed details regarding his administration's policies on the fishing industry, such as providing state-aid and training opportunities for entrepreneurs who wish to export frozen fish products. The international sale of frozen fish with bulk pricing has the potential to increase the current earnings from the export of fish fourfold. In addition, the President advised the fishing community to move away from their sole dependence on tuna, and to explore farming reef fish and other marine creatures that have high market value, noting that farming bait fish could become a separate, prosperous fisheries subindustry. Further, President Solih also announced that his administration will make policy level changes removing the exclusive license to purchase fish currently granted to only five parties and make it available to all interested parties anywhere in the country.
During his remarks, the President also announced that he plans to make operational level changes to MIFCO, to ensure better market prices for the catch. He noted that currently, only 'Felivaru' is generating profit and that his administration plans to help MIFCO turn into a profitable enterprise by the end of the year.
During the Public Forum, several members of the fishing community expressed their concerns for their livelihood, and also shared their ideas on how to improve and further develop the fishing industry. Some of the issues they highlighted included the inoperational status of the Hoadedhoo Fish Factory, difficulties in securing ice for storage and space restrictions from fish purchasers, greatly reducing the numbers of fish that can be sold whilst increasing waste.
They further expatiated on such issues as the high fuel costs incurred from having to travel long distances to trade, the difficulties they encounter in obtaining the fuel and expressed their thoughts on fuel subsidies. The renovation of the Ice Plant Jetty at Thinadhoo was a recurring concern of many members of the community, and recommendations were also made for the installation of ATM services in the island. The fishing community also suggested the removal of import duty on items pertinent to the industry and discussed more suitable solutions for waste disposal by vessels than is used currently.
Answering some of the suggestions and concerns raised by the fishing community, the President noted that his administration has always strived to create positive changes and pays close attention to the needs and perspectives of the community. He recalled a recent occurrence where an island that was supposed to be leased for tourism purposes was instead maintained for bait fish procurement. He stated that renovations of the Ice Plant Jetty, as well as the initiation of a project to increase the capacity of ice production would commence as soon as possible.
He also spoke about decentralizing fish purchasing through the country and plans to develop an international airport at Huvadhu Atoll to facilitate better trade options in the area. The President reiterated his administration's goal to help the fisher community towards a more productive future where local fisheries products will have their profits raised substantially.
This session of the 'Jazeera Holhuashi' public forum was aimed at speaking to members of the fisheries community and ensure that their collective voices are heard and viewpoints recognized. The Minister for Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture and Senior officials of MIFCO also answered relevant questions raised by the community. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Vice President Faisal Naseem and other senior government officials participated in the forum.
