Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has stressed the importance of holding food fairs to promote local produce and preserve cultural traditions.
Speaking to PSM News at a food fair held at Meedhoo, the Minister said such fairs showcase the Maldives’ productive capacity and are important cultural events that should continue to be promoted.
“We still need a great deal of support from these producers, particularly in connecting their products to the market. Many tourists visit these fairs. I am confident that if proper arrangements are made to bring their products more effectively to the domestic market, we can further increase their production,” the Minister said.
The fair featured a variety of food products presented by the Women’s Development Committees of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo, along with other participants. These included a range of traditional foods prepared and consumed in earlier times.
Speaking to PSM News, several participants highlighted the importance of organising such fairs.
The exhibition brought together a diverse range of products from island farmers, women running small and medium-sized home-based businesses, and young entrepreneurs.
The fair attracted a large number of visitors, including residents of Meedhoo and Hulhudhoo, and featured products across various categories.