President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided not to allow longline fishing in Maldivian waters on Thursday, a significant move following concerns raised by the Maldives Yellowfin Tuna Fishers' Union.

This decision reverses a Cabinet resolution passed on June 13, 2024, which had permitted longline fishing in the country's seas.

Accoriding to President's office, Union's concerns were directly communicated to President Dr Muizzu, leading to his decision to halt the implementation of the Cabinet's approval.

In response, further discussions are scheduled between the President, the Maldives Yellowfin Tuna Fishers' Union, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that future policies align with public interests and the sustainable development of the Maldives.

Former President Mohamed Nasheed took to the social media platform X to express his approval of President Dr Muizzu's decision.

The original plan for line fishing, if implemented, was projected to generate over MVR 1 billion for the state treasury, according to Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam.

However, the proposal had sparked widespread concern over its potential adverse effects on the environment and the long-term sustainability of the fisheries sector.