India is engaged in discussions with the Maldives government to provide assistance to promote the island nation’s fisheries sector, High Commissioner of India to the Maldives G.K. Balasubramaniam had said.
The government has created the Maldives Fisheries and Ocean Resources Marketing and Promotion Limited (MFORMP) with the primary task of promoting the country’s fisheries sector.
The company was founded with the primary objective of expanding the nation’s fishing industry, and enhancing its social benefits by promoting and advertising Maldivian products on the global market. This includes products from aquaculture, mariculture, and all marine sources. To boost revenue, the company will launch a distinctive brand for local fisheries, advertising it locally and in various lucrative international markets.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of an ice plant in Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, High Commissioner Balasubramaniam revealed that India was in discussion with MFORMP to collaborate on its efforts to promote Maldives’ fisheries.
"In my meeting with the Fisheries Minister [Ahmed] Shiyam, we discussed strengthening relations with fish export companies. We have a Marine Products Export Development Agency in Cochin. We will work to establish a closer relationship with the fisheries promotion agency of Maldives. Then we can use the resources available to work for the development of the Maldives,” the Indian High Commissioner said.
India’s pledge to help promote Maldives’ fisheries comes at a time when the neighbouring country is developing fish factories in six regions of the Maldives. The Indian High Commissioner said that with these efforts, India stands ready to promote Maldives’ fisheries and assist the government in priority areas.
MFORMP has plans to promote fish products in global fisheries fairs and help the fisheries sector in overcoming challenges to export products abroad.