Maldives’ fish exports recorded a sharp increase last year, rising by 87 per cent in 2025 compared to 2024, according to monthly statistics released by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). Export volumes for all major fish products increased between January and November 2025.
As of November 2025, the Maldives exported 69,564 metric tonnes of fish, up from 37,213 metric tonnes during the same period in 2024.
Frozen fish accounted for the largest share of the increase. The MMA reported that frozen fish exports rose by 105 per cent year-on-year. Between January and November 2025, the Maldives exported 61,281 metric tonnes of frozen fish, compared with 29,910 metric tonnes over the same period in 2024.
Exports of canned and pouched fish also increased. A total of 5,788 metric tonnes of canned and pouched fish were exported by November 2025, compared with 5,289 metric tonnes in the corresponding period last year, representing an increase of 9.4 per cent.
Processed fish exports recorded further growth, rising by 34.9 per cent. The MMA reported that 1,745 metric tonnes of processed fish were exported in 2025.
Fish continues to account for the largest share of the Maldives’ exports. The government has stated that it aims to increase income from the fisheries sector and expand the industry’s contribution to the national economy. As part of this strategy, the government is working to increase fish processing and storage capacity.
The Ministry of Fisheries has previously said the government plans to expand fish processing capacity ninefold within three years.
