President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has revealed that a fish purchasing facility will be established in Ihavandhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll. He made the announcement at the ceremony held to officially commence the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service in Zone 1 of the National Public Ferry Network.
At the ceremony, President Solih provided details on the ongoing and planned projects for the northernmost region. He noted that Ihavandhoo has the most prosperous economy in the region and the government has made plans to further develop the island. He highlighted the ongoing projects to fix the issues related to the state of the harbour and the lack of land.
Additionally, President Solih said a fish purchasing facility will be established on the island by next year, with the capacity to store and sell products. He said the facility will pave the way for the products to be exported or sold to Maldivian companies. He also said the state-owned Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) has been increasing its fish processing capacity by procuring more vessels.
Furthermore, President Solih said the failure to export Yellowfin Tuna from Hanimaadhoo International Airport hinders the economy of the Maldives. He noted that the region would thrive if Hanimaadhoo were opened as an economic gateway.