President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said the government aims to triple fish-product exports by 2033.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC)’s Congress 2026, President Muizzu described fishing as vital to the Maldivian people and said developing the fisheries industry is a government priority.
According to the President, when the government took office, around USD 16.2 million was owed to fishermen for fish already purchased. The government has since paid this amount, with total payments released to fishermen by the current government exceeding USD 64.8 million. He said fishermen are now being paid within 48 hours, with payments sometimes exceeding the President’s promised USD 1.29 per kg rate.
The President said the government plans to strengthen its fisheries policy and further develop the industry. In addition to aiming to increase fish exports trifold, he said the government also plans to develop fisheries infrastructure and facilities to support the sustainable use of marine resources.
Projects are already under way to increase the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO)’s capacity and improve fishermen’s access to fuel and ice in different parts of the country.