President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the contract for establishing a fish factory in Fiyoari, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, will be signed with a Chinese company in February. The announcement was made during a community address as part of his ongoing tour of the atoll.
The development of a fish factory in Fiyoari is a key pledge of President Muizzu’s administration, aimed at revitalizing the island’s fishing sector. Speaking to the residents, the President described the people of Fiyoari as industrious and highlighted the vital role of the fishing industry in the region’s economy. He reiterated his commitment to delivering on his promise to establish a modern fish processing facility.
President Muizzu detailed that the planned facility will have a storage capacity of 3,000 tonnes of fish, with the ability to process 100 tonnes of canned fish and 100 tonnes of fish meal daily. Additionally, the factory will feature a 3,000-tonne cold storage unit and a 50-tonne ice plant to support the preservation of fresh catch.
“We are preparing to move forward in partnership with a Chinese company. I am confident that the agreement will be signed by February, with practical work commencing two months later. This project will significantly boost the fishing sector in this area,” the President stated.
He emphasized that the fishing sector remains a top priority for his administration, acknowledging its importance to the livelihoods of many Maldivian families. He also noted that while similar promises had been made by previous governments, tangible progress in the sector had been limited.
President Muizzu highlighted that his administration had already delivered on key commitments, such as settling outstanding payments owed to fishermen by the Maldives Industrial Fishing Company (MIFCO) and ensuring that payments for fish catches are made within 48 hours.
In addition to the fish factory project, the President addressed other concerns raised by Fiyoari residents. He assured that priority would be given to refurbishing the school hall and constructing a multipurpose hall, new classrooms, and a science lab. He also acknowledged requests for improved access to ATM services and pledged that the issue would be resolved. Furthermore, he promised to address the island’s waste management challenges.
