MDA leader: Fishermen need to receive a fair price for their catch

The lack of fair price for their catch is one of the biggest issues facing Maldivian fishermen and this requires an urgent solution, states Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) leader, Meedhoo MP Ahmed Siyam Mohamed.

In a statement on occasion of the National Fishermen’s Day on Saturday, Siyam conveyed greetings to all Maldivian fishermen and industry stakeholders on the occasion.

He stressed the challenged facing the industry.

“The biggest challenge facing Maldivian fishermen today is the issues with selling their catch, and the lack of fair price for their catch. These critical issues need an urgent solution for the sustainable development of the fisheries industry,” he said.

Siyam called for an increase in investments on the fisheries industry, and the establishment of cold storage facilities across Maldives in order to increase fish purchases.

He also stressed the need to facilitate exports of Maldivian fish products, and expand into new markets.

“Fisheries is an ancient profession linked to the hearts of the Maldivian people. It is the bloodline of our economy. Even today, many Maldivian families depend on fisheries as a source of income. Therefore, on such an occasion, I believe its important for relevant parties to listen to the concerns of fishermen and work together to solve the issues,” he said.

Siyam said he wished for the development and progress of the Maldivian fisheries industry.