Maldives Sees 43% Surge in Fish Exports in First Half of 2025

News

The Maldives has recorded a significant rise in fish exports during the first half of 2025, with export earnings climbing by 43% compared to the same period in 2024, according to the latest figures released by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).

By the end of June, the country’s fish export revenue reached USD 74.5 million, up from USD 52 million the previous year. This growth is largely attributed to a sharp increase in export volume and higher demand in international markets.

The monthly breakdown of export revenue shows considerable fluctuation, with April posting the highest value at USD 18.2 million. This was followed by February (USD 13.3 million), March (USD 12.4 million), May (USD 11.2 million), June (USD 10.8 million), and January (USD 8.6 million).

Export volumes also experienced a robust 67% increase, with 44,877.7 metric tonnes of fish exported between January and June 2025 — up from 26,850.8 metric tonnes during the same period last year. The surge reflects heightened fishing activity across the country.

The administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has made the fisheries sector a key pillar of its economic strategy. Efforts are currently underway to strengthen processing and storage capacity to support this growing industry.

According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, national fish processing capacity is expected to increase nine-fold over the next three years — a move aimed at boosting value addition and ensuring long-term sustainability in the sector.