Malé, Maldives – Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, has announced plans to increase the Maldives’ fish processing capacity by more than nine times over the next three years. In an exclusive interview with PSM News, the Minister outlined the government’s efforts to expand the country’s fish storage and processing infrastructure, with a key focus on boosting fish processing capabilities.

Minister Shiyam explained that, under the first phase of the plan, the processing capacity will grow from 35 tonnes to 300 tonnes within three years. The expansion will include upgrades to facilities in the southern atolls, Nilandhoo, and Felivaru, each of which will be equipped to handle 100 tonnes of fish.

To further support the fishing industry, the government is addressing challenges faced by local fishermen, particularly in accessing fish and obtaining ice. As part of this initiative, the government has already started the construction of 11 ice plants, with three set to be operational later this year. An additional five ice plants will be funded by Saudi Arabia, and three more will be included in the upcoming national budget.

Moreover, the government is providing modern facilities to assist fishermen, including a special loan scheme to install Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems on fishing boats. Over 35 fishermen are expected to benefit from these loans in the current year.

Minister Shiyam emphasized that these initiatives are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector, enhance production capacity, and improve conditions for local fishermen.