MIFCO begins purchasing 10–15kg yellowfin tuna at MVR 20 per kg

Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) has begun purchasing yellowfin tuna weighing between 10 and 15 kilograms at a price of MVR 20 per kilogram.

MIFCO Senior Manager for Public Relations, Shifza Musthafa, told Mihaaru News today that the company started purchasing fish of this size for its centres and vessels from yesterday.

She said yellowfin tuna in this category were purchased from Kooddoo Harbour, Addu Harbour, Fuvahmulah, Gaafu Dhaalu Gadhdhoo and Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo.

MIFCO began purchasing undersized yellowfin tuna weighing between 15 and 18 kilograms at MVR 25 per kilogram two weeks ago.

Shifza said MIFCO is paying yellowfin tuna fishermen within 48 hours in line with the company’s payment practice for bluefin tuna purchases.

“This initiative is part of the government’s efforts, in collaboration with MIFCO, to address challenges faced by yellowfin tuna fishermen. We believe this step will significantly ease their concerns and improve the fishery,” she said.

Yellowfin Tuna Fishermen’s Association (BKMU) President Hussain Nasheed welcomed the move, saying it was positive that MIFCO is now purchasing A-grade and B-grade fish at the same prices offered by private buyers, even when fish are rejected due to smaller size or quality issues.

“During peak fishing periods, these fish often have to be sold at very low prices. This brings relief and satisfaction to fishermen,” Nasheed said.

He added that fishermen have long called on the government to purchase yellowfin tuna in the same size categories as private companies, and that MIFCO has informed the association it is preparing to expand purchases accordingly.

BKMU has staged repeated protests in the past demanding that MIFCO purchase yellowfin tuna. Union representatives have also held discussions with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam. Similar advocacy was carried out during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Nasheed said this is the first time fishermen’s concerns have moved beyond discussion and been implemented in practice.

“In the past, there were talks, but no real action. This time, it has actually been done,” he said.