President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the Animal Welfare Bill, introducing a comprehensive legal framework to regulate the care, management, and protection of animals across the Maldives.

The legislation, which was approved by the 20th People’s Majlis on 19 November 2025, sets out national standards for the keeping, breeding, transport, and commercial trade of animals. It also outlines measures to prevent zoonotic diseases, establishes protocols for animal health and safety, and regulates the import and export of animals.

Under the new law, overall policy direction and enforcement will fall under the ministry responsible for animal health at the time, while local councils are assigned specific duties related to monitoring and on-the-ground implementation within their jurisdictions.

The Act includes provisions for penalties and corrective action against individuals or entities that breach its requirements. It further outlines how complaints may be filed and the process through which decisions made under the law can be appealed.

Following presidential ratification, the Animal Welfare Act has now been published in the Government Gazette and will take effect 90 days after publication.