President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has revealed that efforts are underway to seek foreign assistance in addition to the state budget to develop the Maldivian fisheries sector.

The president said this while speaking to the community of Dhevvadhoo island of Gaaf Alif atoll, a famous fishing island, during his ongoing tour of Huvadhu Atoll islands.

The Maldivian leader said that the government is working on many initiatives to solve the difficulties faced by fishermen, and that the process of paying for caught fish within 48 hours was started on 10 December 2024 which coincided with Fishermen's Day.

He went on to reveal that if proper work is done, fisheries is the industry that can generate the highest income relative to GDP and bring wealth to the people. Therefore, he said that the government has planned additional efforts to develop the industry.

He also said that the fishing industry is in the hands of Maldivians and is an important lifeline that is not so directly linked to the dangerous events happening in different parts of the globe.

Stressing that the ice plant in Dhevvadhoo has been out of order for three years, the president said that the Ministry of Fisheries has now started work to repair the ice plant and bring a new ice plant to the island for operations.

Further, the president has promised to solve the issues regarding coastal erosion, harbor issues, and waste management issues in Dhevvadhoo. The president hinted that efforts will be made to resolve these issues within this year's budget.