Fisheries Minister Urges Deep-Sea Research to Diversify Maldives' Ocean-Based Economy

Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has called for an urgent expansion of marine research and the exploration of deep-sea resources to secure the Maldives' economic future. In a special message marking World Oceans Day, Minister Shiyam emphasized that with the ocean comprising over 99% of the nation's territory, it remains the most critical foundation for food security, livelihoods, and national income. The call for diversification comes as climate change severely disrupts traditional fishing. Rising sea temperatures have forced tuna species to migrate to deeper waters and more distant regions, leading to a significant decline in skipjack tuna catches in 2024. This shift has crippled traditional pole-and-line and handline fishing, resulting in prolonged low-fishing seasons that threaten the stability of the fisheries sector. Minister Shiyam argued that the Maldives can no longer delay efforts to increase self-sufficiency and diversify the economy, particularly as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and global economic uncertainty create new vulnerabilities. He stated that the government must innovate to maximize economic returns from the ocean while protecting biodiversity for future generations. Aligning with the policies of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, the ministry is focusing on adding value to fish catches and expanding aquaculture. A key success highlighted by the minister was the introduction of seaweed farming last year, which has already seen its first export shipment and attracted investment from two additional companies. Furthermore, a new project to manufacture seaweed-based products, developed with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), is set to create employment opportunities across various islands. Looking ahead, the Maldives is engaging in discussions with the Government of Japan to further maximize marine resource benefits. These efforts coincide with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, a global initiative aimed at strengthening scientific data collection and local expertise in ocean conservation. Minister Shiyam concluded by urging Maldivians to take a leading role in researching the country's rich marine environment, positioning scientific innovation as the primary driver for sustainable development and economic resilience.