Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail has stated that the planned projects will increase the fish processing capacity of the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited (MIFC) by 12,000MT. He made the statement at a meeting between government officials and fishermen during the Fishermen’s Day celebrations held in Faresmaathodaa, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
Speaking at the meeting, Minister Fayyaz said the government has prioritised increasing the capacity of MIFCO as part of the efforts to develop the fisheries sector. He said the projects will increase the fish processing capacity in Felivaru by 4,000MT, Kooddoo by 6,000MT, Thinadhoo by 1,000MT, Mulak by 500MT, and Ihavandhoo by 500-1,000MT.
Furthermore, Minister Fayyaz said the projects will be conducted according to the government’s plan, but that they will take time to be completed, due to the time taken to attract investments, seek contractors, and procure the necessary equipment and resources. He said that fish processing companies are underdeveloped while more modern fishing vessels are going into operation and that the number of fishing vessels is expected to increase since the government has allowed foreign workers to join the crews.