Over MVR 2.2 Billion Disbursed to Fishermen Since Implementation of 48-Hour Payment Policy

The government has disbursed over MVR 2.2 billion (MVR 2,203,638,225.00) to fishermen following the implementation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's pledge to clear fish catch payments within 48 hours, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Marine Resources Ahmed Shiyam announced today.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, Minister Shiyam highlighted that the administration inherited a massive backlog of unpaid dues to fishermen upon assuming office, which has now been completely settled by the government.

"When the government took office, there was a backlog exceeding 250 million Rufiyaa in unpaid bills to fishermen, with doubts raised on whether that money could be paid. However, under our administration, the President gave high priority to settling those payments to fishermen before we commenced the 48-hour payment timeline," the Minister stated.

Minister Shiyam noted that as of 27 August 2026, cumulative disbursements to fishermen have surpassed MVR 2.2 billion.

"Up to 27 August 2026, since we began disbursing payments within 48 hours as promised, we have released 2.2 billion Rufiyaa. This means MIFCO has fully paid the fishermen for the catch they brought in," Minister Shiyam emphasized.

Highlighting ongoing development efforts by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to revitalize the fisheries industry, the Minister added that alongside the agricultural sector, the ministry's policies are directly structured around the President's strategic manifesto. He reaffirmed that multiple programs and projects are actively underway to resolve structural challenges within the industry and expand the nation's fisheries sector.