Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Siyam has announced that the government aims to complete ongoing ice plant projects and bring them into operation within the year.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, the Minister said the projects are funded by the government and the Saudi Fund for Development. He noted that expanding ice production and cold storage capacity will significantly ease challenges faced by the fishing industry.

The current administration has already established ice plants on six islands, with nine more under construction. Funding assistance from the Saudi Fund supports five additional plants. In total, 23 ice plants are expected to become operational this year.

Ice Plants Currently in Operation

  • L. Maabaidhoo
  • L. Maavah
  • L. Hithadhoo
  • M. Veyvah
  • Lh. Naifaru
  • Sh. Komandoo
  • M. Mulah
  • Kulhudhuffushi City
  • Dh. Hulhudheli

Ice Plants Supported by Saudi Fund:

  • GDh. Rathafandhoo
  • AA. Rasdhoo
  • HA. Dhidhdhoo
  • GA. Dhaandhoo
  • K. Gaafaru

The Minister also highlighted plans to increase national cold storage capacity from 9,500 tonnes to 25,000 tonnes.

Cold storage facilities are currently being developed in:

  • GA. Kooddoo – 4,000 tonnes
  • M. Mulah – 500 tonnes
  • Lh. Felivaru – 4,000 tonnes
  • GDh. Thinadhoo – 1,000 tonnes

Additional cold storage facilities will be built in:

  • S. Hulhumeedhoo – 500 tonnes
  • Th. Hirilandhoo – 200 tonnes
  • HA. Ihavandhoo – 1,000 tonnes
  • Kandu Oiy Giri – 200 tonnes

According to the Minister, these projects are expected to strengthen the fisheries sector by ensuring a stable ice supply and significantly boosting cold storage capacity across the country.