Former Environment Minister warns against seabed exploration under SEZ amendments
Former Environment Minister Aminath Shauna has warned that permitting fuel and mineral exploration in the Maldivian seabed would be a serious mistake with long-term environmental consequences.
Her remarks follow the ratification of amendments to the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, which expand permitted activities within SEZs to include fuel, gas and mineral exploration.
In a post on X, Shauna said the move reflects a short-term approach that poses significant risks to the Maldives’ environment.
She cautioned that such activities could severely damage marine biodiversity, undermine the fisheries sector and negatively impact the country’s tourism industry.
Alarmed by the President signing into law provisions allowing deep-sea mining and oil exploration in the Maldives. This is a grave mistake — threatens marine biodiversity, will destroy fishing grounds, and undermines our tourism value. Profoundly shortsighted!
she wrote
Under the SEZ framework, the president has the authority to determine the types of activities permitted within designated zones, as well as the minimum investment thresholds required for projects.
According to the resolution passed last year and reaffirmed yesterday, the minimum investment requirement for SEZ projects excluding sustainable township developments is set at USD 100 million.
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