Muscat – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) has initiated trial operations of a newly constructed fish market in Mudhaibi, North Sharqiyah, coinciding with the beginning of Ramadan. A diverse range of fish is being made available to customers at the market. 

Dr Abdul Aziz bin Ali al Mashaykhi, Director General in MAFWR in North Sharqiyah, informed that the fish market  aims to cater to the needs of citizens in Mudhaibi and its neighbouring areas. 

Commencement of operations of the market is expected to enhance the overall quality of fish products, elevate consumer satisfaction, create job opportunities for citizens, and ensure  regular supply of fish to local markets, he added.

Funding for the market – RO365,000 – was provided by Petroleum Development Oman  in line with the ministry’s strategic plan to construct modern fish markets in wilayats across the sultanate. 

Mashaykhi noted that the market will play a crucial role in supporting small and medium enterprises as well as workers in the fish selling and marketing sector.

He further added that Mudhaibi fish market will serve as an essential addition to the existing markets in the sultanate, benefiting Al Wusta and South  Sharqiyah governorates – known for their consistent fish landings throughout the year – in particular.  

The market is expected to lead to opening of new outlets for the fisheries sector, contributing to the overall growth of the industry.

The market has a built-up area of 920sqm on a premises spread over 8,000sqm. The facilities include 14 tables for display and sale, a dedicated hall for cutting fish with seven tables, a waiting area for consumers, a special hall for wholesale, cold storage, an ice production plant, and four commercial stores. 

“These features are designed to ensure a well-equipped and efficient environment for both sellers and consumers, promoting a thriving fish market in Mudhaibi,” Mashaykhi said.