Maldives urges EU to remove disproportionate taxes on sustainable tuna exports

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer has called upon the European Union (EU) to eliminate disproportionate taxes on the Maldives' primary export, sustainable tuna. Speaking at the EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum, Minister Zameer underscored the vital importance of this measure in diversifying the Maldives' economy and enhancing its resilience.

During his address, Minister Zameer emphasised the necessity of overcoming external shocks and climate vulnerabilities. He outlined the ambitious agenda set by the Maldives government, led by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu since assuming office on November 17 last year, with a focus on boosting the economy and ensuring a sustainable future.

Highlighting tourism's pivotal role in the Maldives' economic landscape, Minister Zameer revealed the significant shift towards sustainability and eco-friendliness in the sector. He noted plans include diversifying tourism offerings, reopening stalled resorts, and implementing measures to bolster investor confidence.

Additionally, the minister underscored the significance of connectivity, revealing plans to expand the main airport to accommodate up to 25 million passengers and fostering collaboration with EU member states. He pointed out efforts to empower the fisheries industry through new processing plants and an aim to increase exports to EU countries.

Minister Zameer highlighted the Maldives' commitment to a sustainable future, including installing renewable energy systems to meet 33% of the country's electricity demand within the next five years. He added collaboration with EU member states in various sectors, such as renewable energy, digital, climate and energy, transport, health, education, and research, is integral to achieving these goals.

Acknowledging challenges arising from global uncertainties fueled by conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, Minister Zameer stressed the strain on external reserves and government cash flow due to increased commodity and oil prices. He emphasised the need for collaborative international efforts.

In conclusion, Minister Zameer urged the EU to play a pivotal role in supporting the Maldives' economic transition by removing disproportionate taxes on sustainable tuna exports. He argued that this move would strengthen bilateral ties and foster economic diversification and resilience, contributing to a stable, secure, and prosperous Indian Ocean region.

EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum is a genuine platform for dialogue and cooperation, and brings together the foreign ministers of the 27 EU member states, representatives of two European institutions and four regional organisations, as well as over 50 countries from the Indo-Pacific region. A region stretching from the eastern and southern coasts of Africa to the island states of the Pacific Ocean, via the Arabian Peninsula and Asia. Bringing together a total of nearly eighty delegations, the Brussels Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum promises to be unprecedented in its inclusiveness.