Government shifts tone on low fish price pledge; claims fuel price reduction achieves the same objective!

Despite President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's pledge that the purchase price of fish would not fall below 20 Rufiyaa, the government's stance on the matter has shifted.

During his presidential campaign, President Muizzu repeatedly pledged that the purchase price of fish would not be allowed to fall below 20 Rufiyaa. However, as the administration approaches its second year, many are questioning the government over its failure to fulfill this promise.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam stated that the government is undertaking extensive efforts to strengthen MIFCO and is implementing necessary market-driven changes. The Minister further noted that work is underway to adjust fish purchase prices in alignment with the government's pledge, emphasizing that their current efforts are directed toward achieving this goal.

The Minister stated that the government's primary priority has been to ensure timely payments to fishermen for the catch weighed and sold to MIFCO.

God willing, we are moving in that direction. Our initial priority was to ensure that fishermen receive timely payments for the catch they provide to MIFCO.

Minister of Fisheries Ahmed Shiyam

The Minister further stated that the government is implementing a special project to reduce fuel expenses for fishermen, ensuring that fuel will be available at STO rates in every island across the country by the end of April. The Minister also suggested that reducing fuel costs achieves the same objective as maintaining high fish purchase prices, implying that the lower operational costs would offset the impact on fishermen's income.

Once these issues are addressed, fish prices will effectively align with the rates I have mentioned. Even if we do not set a specific fixed price, the reduction in fuel expenditures and the subsequent increase in income will ensure that the value remains at that level, even without a direct adjustment to the official purchase price.

Minister of Fisheries Ahmed Shiyam

Furthermore, during his visits to various islands, the President has been assuring the public that efforts are underway to fulfill his pledge of maintaining fish purchase prices at no less than 20 Rufiyaa. The President has consistently reaffirmed this commitment throughout his ongoing provincial tours.