Maldives to Build Modernised Male’ Fish Market with Japanese Aid

The government has announced that a new modernised fish market will be constructed in Male’ with full aid from the Japanese government, following an agreement between the two countries.

During a community meeting with Henveiru residents at Kalaafaanu School, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu highlighted that the project was initially started while he was Mayor of Male’ but was delayed and halted for various reasons. To resolve the issue, the government has now secured support from Japan to complete the project.

advertisement

A skilled team from Japan is expected to visit the Maldives soon to begin work on the new market, which will be built on the same plot as the current fish market, following the original plans. The project dates back to former President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom’s administration, during which the foundation for the market had already been laid.

The modern building will include a fish market alongside a mixed-use market, incorporating a vegetable market and office spaces for companies and associations in the fishing industry.

The construction plan was first developed when Muizzu was Mayor, proposing a four-storey building on the site of the current Local Market. The plan involved relocating the Travelers Market and the fish market to the new building, with a parking lot in the basement, the fish market on the ground floor, the Local and Travelers Markets on the first three floors, and a food court on the top floor.

At the time, the Male’ City Council had signed a contract under financial regulations to build the market. However, the project was delayed due to the Ministry of Finance and Planning not approving the Male’ Land Use Plan.

The government now intends to proceed with the project under the Japanese aid agreement, ensuring the completion of a modern market facility for Male’ residents.