Bare Minimum Amount Payable to Local Fishermen by Way of Measurement Has Been Increased

Ministry of Fisheries Marine Resources and Agriculture have set a new increased bare minimum amount of monies payable to local fishermen by companies holding permit from the Ministry to acquire fish from local fishermen engaged in pole-and-line fishing.

Photo: Zuvaan Masveriya

The decision to increase the bare minimum by Ministry is in view of aiming to generate a larger income for local fishermen. The policy is primarily aimed at companies largely involved with exportation of fish and fish made products to other countries.

Photo: Zuvaan Masveriya

Under the new policy, skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna weighing 1.5 kilos or more are to be paid at least a minimum of MVR 13.00 by purchasing companies. Prior to this, it was sold for MVR 7.00. For skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna weighting less than 1.5 kilos are to be paid MVR 5.15 by purchasing companies while currently it is sold for MVR 3.60.

Photo: Zuvaan Masveriya

Companies will be subject to adhere to the changes in acquiring fish from local fishermen starting from 24^th September 2020. This is the first time in 10 years that the prices have been revised. Fishing is the second major sector bringing income to our country. it is one where locals are deeply involved in, compared to other industries.

Cover Photo: Zuvaan Masveriya