The Government has designated the current seasonal haze affecting parts of the country as a national priority, citing concerns over public health, environmental quality and potential economic implications for the tourism sector.

In a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, authorities said the reduced air quality is linked to wider regional atmospheric conditions, with seasonal wind patterns carrying pollutants across South Asia and into the Maldives. Given the country’s limited land area and high population density in urban centres, officials noted that the Maldives is particularly exposed to environmental changes originating beyond its borders.

The Ministry is engaged in regional and international efforts aimed at addressing cross-border air pollution, including cooperation on scientific monitoring, information-sharing and sustained diplomatic engagement with relevant partners.

The Government said it will continue working with regional and international counterparts to manage the current impacts while pursuing longer-term measures to strengthen air quality management and environmental resilience. Officials reiterated that, as a Small Island Developing State, the Maldives remains committed to environmental protection and sustainable development.