Technical problem arises shortly after operation of MIFCO's new fish carrier vessel

Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO), the government fisheries company, temporarily ceased fish purchasing shortly after commencing operations with its newly acquired fish carrier vessel.

However, according to MIFCO's CEO, Ismail Fauzi, the issue has since been resolved, reported the local media outlet Mihaaru in a Maldivian native Dhivehi language report on 20 May 2023.

The vessel, named Jazeera 103, officially commenced operation on Thursday evening. It was launched by Maldives' Finance Minister, Ibrahim Ameer, at a ceremony held on Faresmathoda Island in Gaaf Dhaal Atoll. The ship was procured from South Korea to enhance MIFCO's capacity.

Ismail explained that the technical problem occurred after about five boats had already sold their catch. However, MIFCO's engineers were present on board and successfully resolved the issue. The vessel is expected to resume fishing activities the following day.

Currently, the ship is docked at Kooddoo Island in Gaaf Alif Atoll, as confirmed by Ismail.

With the addition of this new vessel, MIFCO's fish carrying capacity has increased to 5,807 metric tonnes, and the iced storage capacity has also risen to 290 metric tonnes.