MIFCO’s March statistics show a drop in yellowfin payouts despite higher skipjack purchases

The amount paid by MIFCO to yellowfin tuna (kanneli) fishing boats fell in March compared to February, according to the company’s latest statistics.

MIFCO bought 194 tonnes of yellowfin in March and paid MVR 2.49 million to fishing boats. This is MVR 430,000 less than the MVR 2.92 million paid for 127.32 tonnes of yellowfin in February.

In contrast, payouts for skipjack tuna (kalhubilamas) increased. MIFCO paid MVR 26.89 million for 1,431 tonnes of skipjack in March, up from MVR 17.46 million for 1,053 tonnes in February.

Altogether, MIFCO disbursed MVR 29.38 million for 1,625 tonnes of fish in March, compared to MVR 20.38 million for 1,180 tonnes in February, an increase of MVR 9 million.

MIFCO began buying yellowfin between 10–15 kg at MVR 20 per kg from January 20 last year, while its Kanduohgiri facility started buying larger yellowfin at MVR 25 per kg from the 10th of the same month.

Despite these purchases, yellowfin fishermen say the government has not fulfilled its commitments. Their demands include:

• MIFCO resuming full‑scale yellowfin purchases  

• Setting minimum prices at MVR 80 and MVR 100  

• Supplying fuel at base rate  

• Ensuring easy access to ice  

Nine people, including Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, were arrested during a recent protest near the Male' city canal.