Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture has stated that unauthorised research related to marine life and fisheries cannot be conducted in the Maldives.
The fisheries ministry stated that some parties are conducting marine research without permission. The research is being conducted in violation of the Regulation on Research on Marine and Marine Natural Resources, according to the ministry.
Individuals seeking to carry out marine biological studies and fisheries-related research in the Indian Ocean must apply to the fisheries ministry for a research permit at least two months prior to the date on which they intend to commence the study. Such research or analysis without valid permission is prohibited. Therefore, the ministry advised individuals to obtain permission through the research portal before starting such a study.