Gulper Shark fishing has officially resumed in the Maldives under a newly implemented Fisheries Management Plan, following the lifting of a 15-year ban. The policy, which took effect today after being published in the Government Gazette, allows Gulper Shark fisheries to operate under strict sustainability guidelines designed to balance conservation and economic opportunity.

The new Gulper Shark Fishery Management Plan, approved by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, aims to re-establish the country’s shark fishery in a responsible and regulated manner. Developed through consultations with fishermen, Government agencies, industry associations, and marine experts, the plan incorporates lessons from previous shark fisheries and the latest available data to ensure long-term sustainability.

Under the regulation, all individuals and vessels engaged in Gulper Shark fishing must be licensed, and vessels are required to carry tracking devices for continuous monitoring. A maximum of 40 vessels will be granted fishing licences, and fishing will only be permitted in designated offshore areas. The fishery season has been set from 1 December to the end of June each year, subject to revision by the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources.

The management plan also includes provisions to reduce bycatch and protect species critical to the health of marine ecosystems. The Government said these measures are designed to maximise the economic benefits of Gulper shark fishing without diminishing the shared value of marine resources.

Gulpar Shark fishing had been banned nationwide since 2010 due to concerns over declining shark populations. The reopening highlights a significant policy shift toward sustainable resource use, with the Government emphasising that the resumption will be closely monitored to protect both livelihoods and the marine environment.