The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has announced that ice plants are being built in nine regions of the Maldives.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister of State Mohamed Muthalib said the development of the ice plants are part of the government's initiative to maintain the quality of fish and provide fair price for fishermen's catch. He said ice plants are being built in nine regions of the country and that the projects are expected to be completed within the next six months.
The ice plants are being built in Dhidhdhoo in Haa Alifu Atoll, Rasdhoo in Alifu Alifu Atoll, Maamendhoo in Laamu Atoll, Meedhoo in Dhaalu Atoll, Rathafandhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Naifaru in Lhaviyani Atoll, Veyvah in Meemu Atoll, Fiyoaree in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and Maavah in Laamu Atoll. Five projects are funded by the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and four projects were terminated in 2023 due to delays by Fenaka Corporation Limited.
Additionally, the fisheries ministry stated that opportunities will be opened to install Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems on 200 fishing vessels along with easy access to bank loans.