MIFCO Advances Refrigerated Sea Water Integration onto Fishing Vessels

The Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited (MIFCO) is progressing with the integration of Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems onto fishing vessels, a move linked with the Kandu Falhuge Nafaa Programme.

In an interview with PSM News, MIFCO’s Chief Executive Officer, Ismail Fauzee, expressed that the incorporation of RSW systems will pave the way for more competitive fish pricing. Emphasising the government’s vested interest in this initiative, Fauzee confirmed that the RSW integration comes after thorough assessments of vessel capacities by MIFCO engineers. He further assured that MIFCO remains committed to providing top-quality RSW systems, with service centres soon to be established for warranty and maintenance issues.

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One of the primary objectives behind this initiative is to alleviate the challenges fishermen face when trying to source ice from distant ice plants across various atolls. By equipping vessels with these systems, fishermen can preserve their catch’s freshness for extended durations, thereby enabling them to remain at sea for longer spells. 

This move aligns with the government’s broader vision for industry development and enhancing convenience for fishermen. Moreover, the government is offering loans to support the RSW system installations. In a notable change, funds designated for these installations will now be transferred directly to the fishing boat owners’ bank accounts.