The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has designated 10 additional zones for the expansion of the mariculture industry in Maldives.

The government decided in 2024 to allocate a large area for grouper farming and develop mariculture in four zones.

The ministry subsequently identified mariculture zones in Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Raa, Meemu and Thaa atolls.

The 10 additional zones announced by the ministry on Monday comprise two zones in Thaa Atoll, three in Meemu Atoll, two in Faafu Atoll, two in Dhaalu Atoll and one in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

The President's Office has previously said hatcheries would be established to support mariculture businesses and that the facilities would be opened to foreign investment.

The government also plans to establish regulations governing the leasing of zones designated for mariculture, the President's Office said.

In addition, 73 hectares of lagoon area approximately 7km south of the Vaadhoo Channel in the southern part of Male' Atoll will be designated as a reserve for commercial grouper cultivation, according to the President's Office.

The Fisheries Ministry is already involved in grouper hatchery and farming projects in Alif Dhaalu Mahibadhoo, Omadhoo and Dhigurah.