The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has officially designated five strategic zones across the Maldives for the development of mariculture. sustainability of the fisheries sector.

In a statement released today, the Ministry confirmed that these areas have been selected to attract investment and drive economic diversification.

To incentivise participation, the Government will offer special concessions to investors, including a complete waiver of rent for the first three years and exemption from acquisition costs for mariculture projects within these designated zones.

The five atolls earmarked for mariculture development are:

These zones were chosen for their potential to support the sustainable cultivation of marine species, thereby contributing to the long-term resilience of the fisheries sector.

In addition to promoting investment, the Government has initiated training and human resource development programmes in mariculture. To date, 29 individuals from 19 atolls have completed basic mariculture training.

Moreover, the Ministry has extended its outreach to the younger generation, with 142 students participating in awareness sessions aimed at fostering interest and understanding of mariculture practices among school communities.

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam previously stated that the Government's vision is to establish mariculture as a prominent industry that significantly contributes to the national economy. He emphasised that this strategy aligns with the goal of economic diversification and sustainable use of the Maldives' vast marine resources.