Maldives and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to closer cooperation in the fisheries sector during a courtesy call by Fisheries and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam to US Ambassador Hugo Yue-Ho Yon in Malé.

The meeting, held on Wednesday, brought together senior officials from both governments and focused on investment opportunities and joint efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Indian Ocean.

Talks centred on enhancing bilateral collaboration, attracting investment and tackling IUU fishing; issues both sides identified as critical to the Maldivian economy and regional maritime governance.

The engagement builds on ongoing US support for maritime security in the Maldives. In February 2024, the United States announced USD 8 million in funding to provide patrol vessels aimed at strengthening the Maldives’ maritime surveillance capabilities. The initiative directly supports efforts to secure the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and counter IUU fishing.

The fisheries sector is widely recognised as vital to the Maldivian economy, with the Government highlighting its strategic role in fostering investment, supporting livelihoods and driving economic growth.

IUU fishing continues to pose a major threat in the region. The 2023 IUU Fishing Risk Index ranked Asia and the western Indian Ocean among the world’s most vulnerable zones. For small island developing states like the Maldives, limited resources hinder the ability to monitor and enforce maritime boundaries effectively.

Since taking office, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Administration has prioritised fisheries revitalisation under a broader economic reform agenda. As part of these efforts, the Government has designated four mariculture development zones in Boduthiladhunmathi (Haa Alifu and Haa Dhaalu), Meemu Atoll, Raa Atoll and Thaa Atoll. It also aims to increase national fish storage capacity to 25,000 tonnes over the next five years.

To support investment in these zones, the Government has introduced a range of incentives, including waivers on land acquisition fees, exemption from land rent for the first three years and duty-free import of mariculture equipment such as hatchery systems, cages and cold storage units.

Officials from both countries also exchanged views on broader maritime governance challenges, with IUU fishing remaining a central concern. The shared commitment to cooperation reflects the sector’s growing importance in regional diplomacy and sustainable development.