Fisheries Ministry Opens Public Consultation on Proposed Gulper Shark Fisheries Management Plan

News

The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has launched public consultations on the proposed Gulper Shark Fisheries Management Plan and its accompanying draft regulations, inviting feedback from stakeholders and the general public.

The initiative follows President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s August announcement that the Government will reopen Gulper Shark fishing to local fishermen starting 1 November. The consultation process aims to ensure that the management plan reflects the views of fishing communities while embedding strong sustainability and conservation principles.

According to the Government, the decision to reopen the fishery was made in coordination with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, to balance economic opportunity with ecological protection.

While shark fishing has been prohibited nationwide since 2010, the current Administration began reviewing the ban following requests from local fishermen. The proposed reopening would take place under strict management and monitoring frameworks to ensure responsible harvesting and the long-term sustainability of marine resources.

The Government sees the plan as part of its broader strategy to revitalise the fisheries sector, enhance community livelihoods, and diversify the national economy through value-added marine industries — including the production of fish-based and coconut-related products.

The Ministry has encouraged all interested individuals, associations, and industry partners to submit their feedback before the final plan and regulations are approved and implemented.