The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has announced that yellowfin tuna fishers can now purchase diesel at the government's subsidised rate from Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM) sheds in Hulhumale and Himmafushi.
This decision, made through collaborative efforts between the Ministry and the State Trading Organization (STO), is part of the government's measures to ensure fishers can continue their operations despite the global economic downturn caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Ministry stated that, in response to rising global oil prices due to the Middle East conflict, the government has initiated fuel subsidies under the 'Fahi Hakatha' program to mitigate the impact on Maldivian fishers. To further assist fishers, the 'Fahi Hakatha' subsidy has been revised to provide 0.84 Laari per litre. The Ministry also noted that even when oil prices surged due to the conflict, MIFCO continued to sell fuel to fishers at pre-conflict prices.
According to the Ministry, arrangements have now been made for yellowfin tuna fishers to receive fuel at STO shed rates, similar to skipjack tuna fishers. Consequently, yellowfin tuna fishing vessels refuelling at the FSM terminal in Hulhumale and the FSM shed in K. Himmafushi will now receive fuel at subsidised prices.
Yellowfin tuna fishers who sell their catch to the state-owned fisheries company, MIFCO, already receive diesel at subsidised rates. The Ministry emphasized that the government is assessing how it can support yellowfin tuna fishers facing challenges in the current situation, ensuring they receive the same level of assistance as those in the skipjack tuna fishery.
During a press conference held yesterday at the President's Office by the special cabinet committee formed by the President in response to the Middle East conflict, Minister Shiyam stated that the government is ensuring fishers can continue heading out to sea despite the situation. He assured that arrangements are being made to supply diesel to fishing vessels without interruption. While acknowledging occasional delays in diesel distribution due to logistical issues, the Minister guaranteed that fishers will receive fuel without any difficulties.
