Gov’t Issues Regulation Allowing Gulper Shark Fishing for 40 Vessels

The government has published the regulation governing gulper shark fishing, authorising permits for a maximum of 40 vessels.

The move reverses the shark fishing ban that was imposed during the administration of former President Mohamed Nasheed. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had earlier announced on 26 August, during a meeting with residents of HDh Kulhudhuffushi, that gulper shark fishing would be permitted from 1 November.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

The Ministry of Fisheries publicised the new regulation yesterday, outlining the framework for managing this specific segment of the fisheries industry. Under the regulation, fishing permits will be issued to a maximum of 40 vessels. 

If the number of applications exceeds this limit, applicants will be added to a register based on the order in which their applications were received. Permits will then be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Each licence issued under the regulation will be valid from 1 November until the end of October the following year. Gulper shark fishing will only be permitted outside the atoll area and must adhere to conditions established by the Ministry. Fishing activities will also be limited to a maximum period of seven months per year.

Exporters of gulper sharks and related products are required to purchase only from licensed fishers or processors. Any violations of the regulation may result in fines of up to MVR 400,000, while the fishing of shark species other than gulper sharks may incur a fine of MVR 100,000.