Malé, Maldives | February 12, 2025 – The Maldives is taking ambitious steps to modernize its tuna industry while reinforcing its position as a global leader in sustainable fisheries. Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Honourable Ahmed Shiyam, inaugurated the Tuna Think Tank 2025, emphasizing the need for bold reforms to strengthen economic resilience, expand processing capacity, and enhance sustainability.

“Our tuna fishery is the gold standard for sustainability, but we must ensure it also delivers economic resilience for our people,” Minister Shiyam stated.

At the event, the Minister outlined a forward-looking vision for the sector, including the establishment of new canneries, expanded freezing capacity, and investments in renewable energy and innovation. These strategic initiatives will drive economic growth while ensuring long-term sustainability in the Maldives’ fisheries sector.

A Collaborative Effort for a Resilient Blue Economy

UNDP Maldives remains a committed partner in advancing sustainable fisheries. Through the Tuna Think Tank initiative, UNDP, alongside the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is working to unite key industry players, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth in the sector.

UNDP Resident Representative Enrico Gaveglia emphasized the critical link between sustainability, economic growth, and innovation:

“The nexus of sustainable fisheries, economic growth, and innovation drives UNDP’s support for the Tuna Think Tank initiative. By joining forces and intent with ADB and uniting key actors across the sector, we strengthen the Blue Economy partnership with our development partners like the UK—unlocking opportunities for value addition, job creation, and expanded market access for Maldivian fisheries.”

This initiative builds on UNDP’s broader Blue Economy partnership, which focuses on balancing economic prosperity with environmental stewardship. By aligning efforts with government priorities and international expertise, UNDP aims to support a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready fisheries industry in the Maldives.