Maldives Most Beneficiary of UK's Decision to Remove Fish Import Tariffs

The Maldives has emerged as the primary beneficiary of the United Kingdom's decision to abolish tariffs on imported fish, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam announced during a press conference at the President's Office. On May 20, the UK government suspended tariffs on fish imports to lower the cost of goods within the British market. For the Maldives, this means the 20 percent tariff previously imposed on exported fish has been removed until the end of 2028. Minister Shiyam emphasized that while the policy applies globally, the Maldives stands to gain the most. This outcome follows strategic efforts by the current administration, noting that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu prioritized the removal of these tariffs during his official visit to the UK, raising the issue in every diplomatic meeting. The UK serves as the second-largest export market for Maldivian fish, with the Maldives ranking as the ninth-largest supplier to the British market. Annually, the Maldives exports tuna valued between £16.7 million and £18 million to the UK. Prior to this change, the Maldives faced a competitive disadvantage compared to other major tuna suppliers. Seven of the ten largest suppliers—including Ecuador, Mauritius, Seychelles, Ghana, the Philippines, Spain, and the Netherlands—already enjoyed duty-free access to the British market. The current suspension levels the playing field for Maldivian exporters. Addressing criticism from the opposition, Minister Shiyam clarified that while the UK's policy was not created exclusively for the Maldives, the nation's targeted diplomatic investment ensured it reaped the maximum benefit from the move. The Maldivian government stated it will continue high-level discussions with British authorities to transition this temporary suspension into a permanent removal of the tariff, ensuring long-term stability for the nation's vital fishing industry.