Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, has emphasised the importance of line fishing for optimising the use of the Maldives’ ocean resources. This statement came during a recent press briefing following the government’s decision to reinstate line fishing for local fishermen. The announcement is part of broader efforts to expand the fisheries sector and boost economic activities in the country.
Minister Shiyam highlighted that expanding fisheries is a major government objective, especially in the current economic climate. He pointed out that resuming line fishing is crucial for increasing income and diversifying the fisheries sector. The Cabinet has already approved the reinstatement of line fishing, and the necessary regulations have been drafted in collaboration with key stakeholders. These draft regulations are now open for public feedback.
This move comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the government’s proposal to reopen longline fishing in the Maldives, which includes allowing the bycatch of sharks—a significant departure from the country’s long-standing shark sanctuary status. The proposed regulations have sparked opposition from conservation groups and local fisher unions, who argue that longline fishing threatens vulnerable species and could undermine the livelihoods of traditional one-by-one fishers.
Conservationists have expressed concerns that the reintroduction of longline fishing could harm the Maldives’ reputation as a leader in ocean conservation. Critics argue that this method not only endangers marine biodiversity but also poses risks to the sustainability of fish stocks critical for local communities and the tourism industry. The Maldives Ocean Alliance (MOA) and the Bodu Kanneli
Masveringe Union have launched campaigns against these regulations, urging the government to prioritise traditional, sustainable fishing practices.
As the debate continues, the government is moving forward with its plans to finalise the necessary procedures for reopening line fishing, which remains a less controversial and more sustainable practice compared to longlining.
