How much income the farmer is likely to obtain in terms of fresh harvest per month based on a production of 2,500 kilograms initial weight × 2.5 to 3.0 = 6,250 kilograms to 7,500 kilograms.
Pricing of the seaweed when sold fresh or dry : the price of wet seaweed should range from Rf 0.40 to Rf 0.50 and the price of dried seaweed range from Rf. 3.20 to Rf. 0.50.
Location of processing and storage stations stations and potential buyers of the seaweeds.
Modalities of payment to the farmers (Cash on delivery or accumulated cash per week? per two weeks? or per month?)
Supply of planting materials (by the buyer? If so, how much will the farmer pay? In how many installments : 12, 24, or 36 months?)
Farmers' protection from exploitation such as low buying price, irregular payments, etc. (Can the MOFA intervene? Can the farmers organize themselves into cooperatives?)
Plans for expansion of the seaweed culture : role of farmers and traders and market absorbtion capacity
Government plan for expansion of culture in other atolls. (MOFA and the Ministry of Atolls)
What are the possibilities of potential donors to provide assistance for eventual introduction of seaweed farming in other atolls for further development of the industry in Maldives?
To be competitive with other seaweed-producing countries, the Maldives must be able to export more than 400 MT per month. The Philippines can export 6,000 MT of cottonii per month and the Maldives has the potential to reach the same level. Plan for the establishment of about 400 farmers to be able to produce about 400 MT per month.
Can the women be encouraged to plant seaweed, too?
