Maldives Government Begins Issuing Catch Certificates for Fish Exports to Combat Illegal Fishing

The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources of the Maldives has launched the issuance of catch certificates for fish exporters, marking a critical step in the country's efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This new certification system is designed to ensure that fish exports are tracked and regulated under a robust legal framework, improving transparency in the fishing industry.

In a statement, the ministry emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "This certificate ensures that fish trade and production in the Maldives are managed through a robust system." It will be a mandatory requirement for all fish shipments exported from the country to include this certification.

The catch certificates will provide detailed information about the fish being exported, including the vessel used, the date and location of the catch, and data about the person who processed the fish. This comprehensive approach aims to not only ensure sustainable fishing practices but also strengthen the country's reputation in the global seafood market by adhering to international standards for transparency and sustainability.

This initiative is part of the Maldives' broader strategy to protect its marine resources and combat IUU fishing, which has been a growing concern globally. The system is also expected to enhance the traceability of Maldivian fish products, making them more appealing to international markets that demand sustainably sourced seafood.