The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch programme has assigned a special rating to Maldivian fisheries under its latest criteria, marking the first time in its history that a country-specific assessment has been issued.
The designation represents a significant milestone for both the Maldives and global efforts to evaluate sustainable fisheries. The programme, widely used by seafood buyers in the United States and beyond, considers purchasing standards applied by fishmongers and industry stakeholders when assessing sustainability.
Under the latest rating, Maldivian fisheries have been classified as sustainable, with domestic seafood products earning the highest “Best Choice” designation across the Indian Ocean region. This comes despite broader concerns over sustainability in other parts of the region and reflects years of sustained efforts by local fishermen, processors, buyers and government institutions.
Director General of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Dr Hussain Sinaan, described the recognition as a major honour for the Maldives, attributing it to nearly a decade of consistent work. He said that since 2016, efforts have been focused on demonstrating the clear distinctions between Maldivian fisheries and those of other Indian Ocean nations, including continued engagement with the Seafood Watch programme.
Dr Sinaan noted that the rating is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits, including increased income for the fisheries sector and expanded access to international markets.
“This will bring many benefits to the fishery. First, the whole world will accept what we are doing. At the same time, it is changing. We have new markets to introduce new American products. Then the price will be transferred to the fishermen,” he said.
Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam said the recognition affirms the country’s fisheries model, which is based on sustainability and responsibility. He described the achievement as the result of long-standing efforts by Maldivian fishermen in supporting the economy while safeguarding marine resources.
The Seafood Watch rankings assess seafood exports to markets across the Americas, including the United States, Canada and Mexico, based on sustainability standards. The region is currently among the fastest-growing markets for sustainably sourced seafood.
The Ministry of Fisheries stated that access to these markets, particularly the United States, one of the largest consumers of seafood after the United Kingdom, will provide significant opportunities for Maldivian fish exports and further strengthen the sector’s contribution to the national economy.