News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — In a departure from past Ramadan traditions, the government’s 2025 gift of choice turned out to be a tidal wave of tuna cans—more than 100,000 of them—distributed to households across the nation as a sensible, fish-filled gesture.
The numbers tell the story: 111,231 cases of tuna cans have been accepted by households during Ramadan, according to official statistics. At a discounted rate of 730 Maldivian rufiyaa per case—negotiated with the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO)—the government has shelled out a hefty 81,198,630 rufiyaa, or roughly $5.2 million, to make this year’s Ramadan gift a reality. For context, the market rate for a case of these fish cans hovers at 760 rufiyaa, meaning the government scored a modest deal to keep costs in check.
The distribution hasn’t been even across the board. The outer islands, received the lion’s share with 60,712 cases, while the bustling capital of Male’ took in 50,519 cases. It’s a subtle nod, perhaps, to the greater logistical challenges faced by those living beyond the urban center—and a sign that the government is keen to ensure no one misses out, no matter how far-flung their atoll.
This pivot to tuna cans marks a departure from last year’s Ramadan offering, when households received more traditional rations. But the choice of fish this time around seems to resonate deeply. In a country where the ocean is both livelihood and lifeline, tuna is a staple that hits home. Even in the smallest households, two cans can disappear in a single meal, making this a gift that’s as practical as it is symbolic.
For the government, the cost—81 million rufiyaa and counting—was no small sum. Yet it was hard to argue with the logic: in a nation of fishers and fish lovers, tuna cans might just have been the perfect way to say “Ramadan Mubarak and Eid Mubarak” As the cans stacked up in kitchens from Male’ to the islands, it was clear by Eid that this was one gift that didn’t sit on the shelf for long.
