MIFCO’s decision to limit ice sales creates significant challenges for yellowfin tuna fishermen
BKMU has expressed deep concern over the challenges facing yellowfin tuna fishermen following MIFCO’s decision to cap daily ice sales at two tons for vessels that do not sell catch to the company. The union has called on the government to eliminate existing barriers at ice plants and establish a more accessible distribution system to ensure fishermen can obtain the necessary supply without disruption.
Fishermen purchasing ice from a MIFCO center: Local fishermen are facing significant challenges following MIFCO's decision to impose limits on ice sales. | mifco
The Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) has expressed deep concern over significant difficulties faced by yellowfin tuna fishermen in procuring ice, following recent changes to the ice distribution policies at Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) centers.
Effective June 28, the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) has implemented a policy limiting ice sales to vessels that do not sell their catch to the company to just two tons per day. However, because MIFCO’s purchase prices for yellowfin tuna are significantly lower than those offered by private companies, many vessels have opted to sell their catch to private buyers instead. This decision by MIFCO has left these vessels unable to obtain sufficient ice, creating major obstacles for them to head out to sea.
In a press statement released on Monday, BKMU highlighted that the unavailability of ice from plants across various regions is causing significant financial losses to fishermen, particularly during this period of declining yellowfin tuna catches. The union further noted that services have been disrupted at several plants due to fuel shortages required for operations, among other technical issues.
The BKMU further stated that two tons of ice per day is insufficient for vessels engaged in yellowfin tuna fishing. Consequently, the union has called on the government to revise the current regulations and establish a mechanism that ensures fishermen have access to an adequate supply of ice without facing difficulties.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s presidential pledges included ensuring easy access to ice across all regions of the Maldives and maintaining the price of yellowfin tuna at a minimum of 80 Rufiyaa per kilogram. However, with a significant portion of the term having passed and these promises remaining unfulfilled, frustration and concern continue to grow among the fishing community.
The Muizzu administration previously used police force to disperse a protest held on last year’s Fishermen’s Day, where fishers had gathered to voice similar grievances. Furthermore, the government proceeded to press charges against several individuals who participated in that demonstration.
