President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has assured to address the challenges facing the tuna fishing industry in the Maldives. He made the commitment during a meeting with the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) held at the President's Office. The President and Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam engaged directly with BKMU members.
Speaking at the meeting, President Dr. Muizzu emphasised that the purpose of such meetings is to bring government solutions directly to the citizens. He reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the pledges outlined in his manifesto, stating that once these goals are achieved, the fishing sector will see solutions. He also provided BKMU members the opportunity to voice their concerns and share their experiences.
During the discussion, BKMU members highlighted several challenges, including low incomes, the declining number of individuals entering the fishing sector, and difficulties in handling and certifying the hygiene of fish and fishing vessels. They also expressed concerns about the effectiveness of devices used to track fishing boat locations, requested a mechanism for selling fish at minimum prices, and sought special buoys for the bigeye tuna fishery, as well as the protection of fishing areas.
Speaking to PSM News following the meeting, President of BKMU Hussain Nasheed said that he had communicated all the fishermen’s issues to President Dr. Muizzu. He said that these included the low income from tuna fishing and the depletion of ocean resources. He also expressed that President Dr. Muizzu had pledged to address these issues, and noted that the meeting was a significant first step in bringing the fishermen's difficulties to the attention of both the President and Minister Shiyam.
The government has reiterated its commitment to listening to individuals working within the fisheries sector.