Shiyam: Permission granted for Gulper Shark fishing after considering main concerns

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam stated tonight that the decision to permit gulper shark fishing was made after giving due consideration to the main concerns raised.

The government's earlier announcement to authorize this type of fishing drew concern from many quarters. Nevertheless, the government decided to permit gulper shark fishing starting tomorrow, and the relevant regulation was published today.

Shiyam told "Mihaaru News" that these concerns were taken into account when drafting the regulation. He said this includes requirements such as conducting the work only with a license, limiting the number of licenses issued annually, and designating specific zones and seasons for the fishing activity.

According to the Regulation on Planning, Implementing, and Monitoring gulper Shark Fishing, permission will be granted to a maximum of 40 vessels per year.

Furthermore, gulper shark fishing will only be allowed in areas outside the atoll lagoons. The regulation also stipulates that the activity can only be conducted for a period not exceeding seven months each year, as announced by the Ministry.

Shark fishing was previously widespread in the Maldives, but it was banned starting in 2010 during the administration of former President Mohamed Nasheed.

In August, while meeting with residents of Hdh. Kulhudhuffushi, who were most engaged in shark fishing before the ban, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced that preparations were underway to permit gulper shark fishing in the Maldives starting the next day.

Consequently, local and international organizations advocating for the protection of the oceans and marine life called for a reconsideration of the decision.