Sustainable Fisheries Key to UK Tariff Suspension, Says President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said the United Kingdom’s decision to eliminate tariffs on fish exports from the Maldives was driven by the country’s long-standing commitment to sustainable fishing practices, highlighting international recognition of the Maldives’ fisheries management approach.

Speaking on PSM News’ Nation Chat programme, President Muizzu described fisheries as one of the Government’s highest-priority sectors and noted that the United Kingdom remains one of the Maldives’ most important export markets for fish products.

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On 20 May, the UK suspended tariffs on skipjack tuna imported from the Maldives for a two-year period. Previously, Maldivian tuna exports to the UK were subject to a 20 percent tariff.

The President said the Government had worked extensively to secure the removal of the tariff, with the issue receiving sustained attention through diplomatic engagement. He noted that efforts to address the tariff had been prioritised by Maldivian officials, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Maldives’ diplomatic mission in the UK, and had also formed part of discussions during his visit to Britain.

According to the President, the tariff was introduced following the Maldives’ graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. He said the country nevertheless continues to face challenges similar to those experienced by many developing economies.

President Muizzu said the outcome reflected cooperation between the Maldives and the United Kingdom. He noted that the British Government had considered options that would support sustainable fisheries, benefit consumers in the UK and improve opportunities for Maldivian fishermen, with discussions taking place over the past two and a half years.

He welcomed the UK’s decision to suspend tariffs on imported tuna products until the end of 2028, describing it as a significant development for the Maldivian fisheries sector.

The President said the Maldives is expected to benefit more than most other exporting countries from the measure, noting that it was the only Small Island Developing State still subject to such a tariff on tuna exports to the UK market.

He also highlighted the popularity of Maldivian tuna products in the United Kingdom, noting that canned fish from the Maldives is widely available in British retail outlets. The President expressed appreciation to the UK Government for its decision to remove the tariff and expand market access for Maldivian exports.