Maldives Scraps Plans to Reopen Tuna Longline Fishery
December 27, 2024
In a pivotal decision announced on 29th August 2024, the Maldives government officially dropped its controversial proposal to reopen the longline tuna fishing industry. The decision came after protests and strong opposition from conservation groups, the diving community, and local fishers. The protests raised concerns about the overfishing of bigeye and yellowfin tuna and the harmful bycatch of sharks, threatening the nation’s renowned marine ecosystem and its critical role in marine tourism.
Who Opposed the Proposal and Why?
The decision to abandon the longline tuna fishing proposal came after vocal opposition from both domestic and international conservation groups. Among the most notable voices were the Maldivian community, marine conservation organizations, and the diving industry, all of whom stressed the importance of protecting the nation’s marine biodiversity.
SSI took a firm stand against the plan. In an official letter to the Ministry of Tourism in August 2024, SSI expressed deep concerns over the impact of reopening longline tuna fishing on the Maldives’ ecosystem and economy. Their statement highlighted:
- The overfished status of bigeye and yellowfin tuna stocks, which would be further depleted by reopening the fishery.
- The unavoidable bycatch of sharks, undermining the Maldives’ commitments to shark conservation made at the 19th CoP of CITES.
- The potential impact on the Maldives’ global reputation as a premier shark sanctuary and diving destination.
SSI emphasized that shark conservation is not just an ecological priority but a cornerstone of the Maldives’ thriving marine tourism industry. According to research, robust shark protection has boosted tourism demand by 15%, with shark-related diving tourism contributing over US$5 million to the local economy. Conversely, allowing the tuna fisheries to reopen could have led to a 50% decline in tourism demand, resulting in revenue losses exceeding US$20 million per year.
Why Were the Fisheries Considered for Reopening?
The Maldives stopped issuing licenses for longline fishing vessels in 2019 but had been weighing the potential reopening of the longline fishery as part of efforts to boost tuna exports and support the fishing sector.
Longline fishing, which involves deploying miles of baited lines, is effective for catching large pelagic species like tuna but is notorious for its high levels of bycatch, including vulnerable sharks and other non-target species.
While tuna exports are a significant source of income for the Maldives, the nation’s fisheries have faced increasing pressure due to declining tuna populations and international scrutiny over unsustainable practices. The proposal sought to balance economic needs with resource management, but critics argued that the long-term ecological and economic risks far outweighed any short-term gains.
Why the Maldives’ Marine Ecosystem Needs Protecting
The Maldives’ reefs and surrounding waters are among the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world. Home to over 1,100 species of fish and 200 species of coral, the reefs play a vital role in maintaining ocean health by supporting fisheries, providing coastal protection, and serving as breeding grounds for countless marine species.
Diving in the Maldives is a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy, generating millions of dollars annually and supporting local livelihoods. The country’s reputation as a premier diving destination is built on its pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life, and status as a global shark sanctuary.
Divers flock to the Maldives to experience world-class sites like Hanifaru Bay, famous for its manta ray congregations, and South Ari Atoll, an iconic area for diving with whale sharks.
Conservation of vital species, such as sharks and tuna, is critical not only for the health of the ocean but also for maintaining the Maldives’ appeal to eco-conscious travelers. Shark populations, in particular, are essential for the balance of marine ecosystems and are a major draw for divers. Losing these species to bycatch or unsustainable practices would have cascading effects on both the environment and the economy.
The Maldives’ decision to scrap plans for reopening longline tuna fishing is a testament to the power of collective advocacy and the importance of prioritizing sustainability. By listening to the concerns of conservation groups, the diving community, and local stakeholders, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the nation’s unique marine environment.
This move not only preserves the Maldives’ standing as a global leader in marine tourism and conservation but also ensures that its vibrant marine ecosystems will continue to thrive for generations to come.
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