The Maldives has set an exemplary standard for sustainable fisheries practices and the integration of modern, innovative technology to ensure safer fishing activities, according to Minister of Fisheries Ahmed Shiyam. These remarks were made by the Minister during the opening ceremony of the 36th FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI36).
Minister Shiyam highlighted the Maldives’ commitment to advancing its fisheries industry through sustainable practices, but he also emphasized that achieving these objectives necessitates the support of global leaders to tackle existing challenges. He called upon the international community to take decisive action towards sustainable fishing practices and shed light on the specific difficulties faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like the Maldives, particularly in the realms of trade and commerce related to fisheries.
One of the most significant challenges for the Maldives, according to Shiyam, is the high cost of marketing and selling fish on the global market, exacerbated by heavy export taxes. These financial burdens force the Maldives to export raw skipjack tuna for processing abroad, rather than adding value domestically.
Minister Shiyam pointed out that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his administration are dedicated to overcoming these obstacles. The goal is to ensure that Maldivian fish exports can be sold at competitive global market prices, thus aligning with the broader objectives of sustainable and profitable fisheries practices.
Shiyam’s address also underscored the necessity for global cooperation and bold leadership in promoting and implementing sustainable fishing practices worldwide. He stressed that the Maldives, despite its advancements, cannot achieve its goals in isolation and called for a collaborative effort to support the fisheries sector, which is vital for the economy and livelihoods of many small island nations.
In closing, Minister Shiyam reiterated the Maldives’ role as a trailblazer in sustainable fisheries and urged the international community to recognize and support the unique challenges faced by SIDS, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable future for global fisheries.
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