Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has highlighted ongoing government efforts to address illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing within the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Speaking at the 7th edition of the public interactive "Ahaa Forum," the Minister detailed recent legal amendments and inter-agency efforts aimed at curbing unauthorized foreign vessels.
Addressing a question regarding foreign vessels entering Maldivian waters illegally, Minister Shiyam noted that maritime surveillance systems routinely identify and apprehend non-compliant foreign fishing vessels. However, managing detained foreign vessels and foreign crew members presents logistical and legal challenges during extended investigation periods.
To streamline administrative and legal protocols, the government introduced key amendments through the second amendment to the Fisheries Act, passed by the People's Majlis and signed into law by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Key points highlighted by the Minister during the forum include:
Legislative Streamlining: The second amendment to the Fisheries Act simplifies the legal and administrative procedures for handling foreign vessels apprehended within Maldivian territory, reducing procedural delays during investigations.
Inter-Agency Cooperation: The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources works closely with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the Maldives Police Service to coordinate maritime enforcement.
Recent Apprehensions: The Minister confirmed that law enforcement, including the Maldives Police Service, recently detained another unauthorized vessel inside Maldivian waters, with investigations currently ongoing.
International Collaboration: The Maldives continues to engage on global platforms to advocate for stricter measures against IUU fishing, emphasizing that non-compliant fishing practices do not align with Maldivian sustainable fishing standards.
Minister Shiyam concluded by reassuring the public that the government remains fully committed to safeguarding the country's marine resources and strengthening international cooperation to eliminate IUU fishing in the region.
