The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has invited bids for the lease of uninhabited islands, lagoons, and reefs to develop aquaculture facilities, marking a step forward in the government’s efforts to diversify the country’s marine industries.
According to the announcement, the lease period for selected sites will run for 21 years, with the possibility of extensions under existing laws, though the total term cannot exceed 50 years. Interested applicants have until 1 p.m. on 6 November to submit their proposals.
Prospective bidders are encouraged to conduct their own surveys of the identified islands and lagoons, subject to obtaining a formal permit for site visits. The ministry clarified that while inspections are recommended, proposals will remain valid even if a physical study is not carried out.
The tender follows recent amendments to the Aquaculture Regulation, first introduced in 2020, which now widens the scope of eligible areas to include lagoons and open ocean territories not under the authority of island councils. Under the updated framework, leasing rights are open to Maldivian individuals, sole proprietorships, registered foreign investment companies, and corporate societies.
The move reflects a broader national strategy to attract private investment into aquaculture, an industry seen as key to ensuring long-term food security, expanding export opportunities, and reducing reliance on traditional capture fisheries.
In parallel, the Maldives has strengthened international cooperation in the sector. Earlier this month, the government signed a partnership agreement with India’s Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, to promote sustainable tuna fisheries and improve marine resource governance across the region.
