To increase the fish purchasing capacity of Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO), the company is to install a 120 ton brine freezing system per session in Kooddoo Island, says the Chief Operating Officer (CEO) of MIFCO Ismail Fauzi.

Fauzi made the statement while speaking at the event held to commemorate the commencement of the company's new vessel, Jazeera 103's operation, in Faresmaathodaa Island of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, on Thursday.

Speaking at the event, Fauzi stated that MIFCO, in association with State Trading Organization (STO) is working to increase the fish purchasing capacity of Kooddoo by installing a 120 ton brine freezing system per session in the island. He noted that the company is getting ready to commence the practical works of the project.

Fauzi also stated that, 50 reefer containers are being set up in the yard in first phase, to facilitate the export of fish to additional markets.

Additionally, Fauzi highlighted that the administration is currently working to solve the issues faced by the fishermen in the southern regions of the country. As such, he note that the administration has made the decision to install a 4,000 ton cold storage in Kooddoo Island. Kooddoo currently has 2,000 ton cold storage.

Furthermore, the CEO also noted that Kooddoo harbor expansion and development project is going on, and highlighted that this would bring out positive changes.

MIFCO is working to increase their fish purchasing and storage capacity. As such, one of three vessels brought under this, Jazeera 103 would be used in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Therefore, the fishermen engaged in fishing in the Faresmaathoda area will be seeing some positive changes.

Jazeera 103 has the capacity to purchase and freeze 120 metric ton of fish. The vessel also has the storage capacity of 420 metric tons of fish.