President Muizzu Vows to Protect Fishery Pledges Against Political Obstruction

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has asserted that obstructing the fulfillment of public pledges serves no one, emphasizing his administration's commitment to revitalizing the Maldives' vital fisheries sector. Speaking during the second episode of 'The Pulse' podcast series, the President addressed critical industry challenges and outlined the government's strategic roadmap for the sector. A primary focus of the President's strategy is the optimization of the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO). Dr Muizzu noted that efforts to streamline operations are already yielding results, with a current goal to maintain fish purchasing prices at USD 1.30 per kilogram. He expressed optimism that this rate could be increased as economic conditions improve. Addressing the specific concerns of yellowfin tuna fishermen, the President revealed plans for MIFCO to re-enter the yellowfin tuna market. He argued that this move is the most sustainable way to secure competitive pricing for fishers and assured that the implementation process would be conducted in close consultation with the fishing community. On the international front, President Muizzu highlighted the importance of the current tariff exemptions granted by the United Kingdom. He affirmed that the government will continue diplomatic efforts to ensure these exemptions become permanent, securing better market access for Maldivian exports. The President also tackled the shrinking workforce within the fisheries industry. He attributed this decline partly to the excessive recruitment of workers into State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), which diverted labor away from traditional fishing. However, he explained that ongoing SOE reforms are designed to correct these structural imbalances and benefit the wider economy through a more comprehensive policy framework. Concluding his remarks, the President expressed satisfaction with the current trajectory of the industry. He specifically pledged to resolve the lingering challenges associated with establishing a modern, state-of-the-art fish market in Malé, which remains the primary hub for the sector's stakeholders.