MIFCO reports fresh decline in August catch after July rebound

Fishing declined in August compared to July, according to statistics from the state-owned fish company, MIFCO.

In July, fisheries improved significantly and MVR 49.8 million was disbursed to fishermen. However, only MVR 29.9 million was released in August, a decrease of about 40 percent compared to July.

According to MIFCO figures, 535 vessels landed 1,488.30 tonnes of fish last month. The bulk of the catch was skipjack tuna, with 1,465 tonnes weighed for MIFCO. In addition, 13.3 tonnes of yellowfin tuna above 10 kg and 10.9 tonnes of yellowfin above 15 kg were purchased.

MIFCO disbursed MVR 29.9 million to fishermen for these purchases.

Statistics released by MIFCO show that April recorded the highest catch and payout this year, with 4,414 tonnes of fish weighed and MVR 78.8 million released to fishermen.

The lowest fishing this year was recorded in June.