The Maldives Seafood Processers and Exporters Association, (MSPEA) has announced that a Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certificate is now issued for pole-and-line and handline Yellowfin Tuna, in addition to pole-and-line Skipjack Tuna fishing.
In a press release, MSPEA has stated that this is an important milestone in the Maldives fisheries industry, ensuring sustainability and supporting local livelihoods.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources stated that this is a great achievement for fishermen, and all those involved in the fisheries and fish processing industries. As the main fisheries product in the country are now MSC certified, this is a major breakthrough for sustainable fishing in the Maldives.
The ministry stated that this accomplishment is a result of years of hard work together with the industry, from both the government and international stakeholders. The Fisheries Ministry added that this was possible because of the continued collaboration with the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC). The great efforts put forth by the Coastal State Alliance from G16 countries, particularly in recovering yellowfin tuna numbers in the Indian Ocean are also a major contributor to this success.
This would expand opportunities for Maldivian fish products in the global market, the Ministry of Fisheries stated. Furthermore, this would enhance ocean protection and provide ease for the fishing industry.
Pole-and-line Skipjack Tuna fisheries have been MSC certified in the Maldives since 2012, currently in its third cycle of certification. As such, the Maldives has been a leading country in sustainable fishing practices globally.
Maldives had first achieved the MSC Certification for Yellowfin Tuna in 2014, but this was withdrawn in 2017 due to the depleted tuna stock in the Indian Ocean the year prior. Maldives is under the jurisdiction of the IOTC and is therefore also affected by this decision.
MSPEA has carried out a Fishery Improvement Project (FIP) starting from 2021, with all biannual assessments having achieved an “A” grade. This includes strong results in stock sustainability and rebuilding, reducing the environmental impact of fishing, as well as uplifting human rights and social responsibility standards.
The latest scientific research from the IOTC shows that currently, there is no overfishing of Yellowfin Tuna stock in the Indian Ocean. Carried out in 2024, this research re-opened the possibility for MSC certification once again.
With the expanded certifications, the Maldives fisheries industry continues to prioritise sustainability, while also supporting livelihoods of fishing communities nationwide.