Nasheed Voices Concerns Over Longline Fishing Proposal

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has raised concerns over the potential introduction of longline fishing in the Maldives.

Nasheed, in a post on the social media platform X, warned that longline fishing could lead to significant bycatch, including rays, dolphins, seabirds, and sharks. 

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He expressed fears that this could negatively impact the Maldives’ tourism industry and its pole-and-line tuna brands, which are known for their sustainability.

https://x.com/MohamedNasheed/status/1824456488800125399

The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has since drafted regulations on longline fishing and invited public feedback. According to the draft, sharks and other non-target marine species caught on set lines may be landed and processed, provided this is done in accordance with internationally recognised standards.

The Ministry has indicated that longline fishing licences will be issued with specific conditions to ensure they benefit local communities and comply with relevant laws and regulations, considering past experiences.

The previous administration had ceased renewing longline fishing licences after the European Union (EU) issued a warning due to multiple regulatory breaches.