Fuel Skids for Fishermen to Be Completed Within Three Months

The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has announced that specialised fuel skids intended to provide affordable fuel to fishermen across the Maldives will be completed within three months.

The initiative aims to ensure that fuel is available at standard rates set by the State Trading Organization (STO) in every atoll.

advertisement

The project was launched following concerns raised by fishermen, particularly in the outer atolls, regarding limited access to reasonably priced fuel. After assuming office, President Mohamed Muizzu pledged to address these challenges by establishing localised fuel supply systems to guarantee equitable access nationwide.

According to the Ministry, the rollout is progressing rapidly, with 78 per cent of development works already completed. Preparatory and structural works have included the pouring of foundations on multiple islands, underground installation of required piping, and the importation and transportation of essential equipment between islands.

The first fuel skid under the project was launched in December last year on the island of Dhuvaafaru. The facility was inaugurated in conjunction with national Fishermen’s Day celebrations.

The Government plans to establish similar fuel skids on 17 additional islands, creating a nationwide network managed by STO and its subsidiary, Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM).

The fisheries sector remains a priority for the current administration. Since early 2024, the Government has cleared outstanding payments owed to fishermen and introduced a system to ensure payments are made within 48 hours. Officials have stated that further facilities requested by the fishing community will be developed as part of broader efforts to support growth, modernisation and long-term sustainability within the Maldivian fisheries industry.