Yellowfin tuna processing factory in Hulhumale’ to be completed by mid-next year

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam states physical works on the yellowfin tuna processing factory planned to be developed in Hulhumale’ will commence mid-this year, with a target to complete the factory by mid-next year.

The Minister made the remark while responding to questions at the Parliament on Tuesday.

In this regard, the Minister said despite efforts by various administrations to address the difficulties faced by yellowfin tuna fishermen, there has been no solution to Kandu Oiy Giri harbor.

As such, Minister Shiyam said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to allocate an area from Hulhumale’ Habor for yellowfin tuna proccing. An area of 25,000 square feet will be allocated from Hulhumale’ Harbor for the purpose, he added.

According to the Minister, the funds required for the project has been arranged via Islamic Development Bank (ISDB).  He detailed that the project will be announced for bidding within the next two months, allowing for physical works on the project to commence by mid this year.

“Yellowfin tuna fishermen have two main concerns. One of them is the lack of fuel on shed rates. The President had resolved this in July of last year. The second concern will be addressed with the development of such a facility which would bring huge easements to yellowfin tuna fishermen,” he said.

Citing yellowfin tuna fishermen, Minister Shiyam said if they are able to come to an arrangement with smaller fish processing parties, their catches will be bought at higher rates than presently purchased by private companies.

The development of the facility would address this concern as well, he added.