President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that significant advancements in the fisheries sector will be delivered within the next two years, with the impact of these efforts expected to be felt soon by local communities.

Speaking on the latest episode of the Rayyithunnaa Eku (With Citizens) podcast today, the President detailed key initiatives designed to strengthen the fish value chain.

These include expanding skipjack tuna storage capacity from 8,500 to 25,000 tonnes and tripling processing capacity from 115 to 355 tonnes.

He affirmed that all planned projects are fully funded and will proceed without delays.

President Dr. Muizzu also stressed the importance of increasing Maldivian participation in the fisheries sector, noting a positive trend of young people returning to the field.

 expressing his desire to see more locals in the profession rather than relying on foreign labor.

To address long-standing challenges such as fuel and ice shortages, the President revealed that the government is investing in infrastructure across the atolls.

By the end of the year, each atoll will have an island offering fuel at State Trading Organisation (STO) rates.

Construction is also underway on ice plants, cold storage units, and fish processing facilities.

In addition, loan schemes are being rolled out to support the introduction of Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems on fishing vessels, an upgrade expected to improve fish quality and market value.

Highlighting a key campaign promise, President stated that fishermen are now being paid within 48 hours of delivering their catch.

Since December last year, this initiative has resulted in over MVR 470 million being disbursed to fishermen.

The President also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to human resource development in the sector.

The Maldives College for Fisheries and Ocean Sciences will continue offering full scholarships to 45 students in fisheries management, with additional specialized training programs in development.