The Chief Government Spokesperson, Mohamed Hussain Shareef, has stated that the United Kingdom’s decision to suspend tariffs on Maldivian fish products presents a major opportunity for the Maldives to significantly increase exports to the British market.

The spokesperson highlighted the importance of the fisheries sector in bilateral trade, noting that fisheries products currently account for around 90 percent of Maldivian exports to the UK.

According to government figures, the Maldives presently exports fish products worth approximately GBP 17 million annually to the UK, equivalent to nearly USD 25 million.

Authorities believe the newly introduced tariff relief could potentially double export earnings, following consultations with the state fisheries corporation and private exporters operating within the industry.

The government also expressed optimism about increasing the presence of Maldivian fish products in British markets.

Current exports to the UK include canned tuna and a range of processed, value-added seafood products.

Officials further emphasized the global reputation of Maldivian tuna, particularly due to the country’s sustainable pole-and-line fishing methods, which continue to attract strong demand among environmentally conscious consumers overseas.

The spokesperson also reflected on previous trade arrangements with the European Union, under which Maldivian tuna once benefited from duty-free access.

Although those concessions ended around 2012, private sector operators continued to maintain their presence in export markets.

Authorities now expect the latest UK policy change to encourage further investment and increased participation in the fisheries sector.

The UK has announced that tariffs on Maldivian tuna imports will remain suspended until the end of 2028.

The Maldivian government has meanwhile indicated its intention to pursue discussions aimed at securing a permanent duty-free arrangement, describing long-term market stability as a key objective for the country’s fisheries industry.