Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has highlighted the Maldives' commitment to transitioning from exporting unprocessed fish products to processed ones, during his participation in the 36th session of the Committee on Fisheries of the FAO in Rome, Italy.
Minister Shiyam underscored the vital role of the fisheries industry in the Maldives' economic landscape, noting that it employs 11% of the national workforce. He emphasised the Maldives' leadership in sustainable fishing practices and conservation of marine resources, while acknowledging the challenges faced in maintaining these practices without adequate international support.
The Minister requested international assistance to enhance fisheries sustainability, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like the Maldives. He pointed out that high costs associated with processing fish for international markets have been a barrier, leading to the export of unprocessed fish products.
Minister Shiyam expressed the government's commitment to reversing this trend and reducing exports of unprocessed fish. Additionally, he urged global leaders to implement significant measures to support sustainable fishing practices, emphasizing adherence to FAO's guidelines and principles of fairness and equity.
During the FAO session, Minister Shiyam engaged in discussions with FAO's Deputy Director General Maria Helena, focusing on the Maldives' initiatives to promote both the fishing and mariculture industries.