The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has introduced a new plan to develop the lobster fishery in an environmentally sustainable way.
The fisheries ministry's plan focuses on fostering sustainable growth in the lobster fishery, as part of its broader efforts to enhance the fishing sector in the Maldives. The ministry said that the plan is centered on four key objectives. These objectives include ensuring that lobster fishing and related activities align with ecosystem-based management, the precautionary approach, and sustainable resource management principles. The ministry also aims to establish policies informed by both ecological and socio-economic data related to the lobster fishery. In addition, the plan emphasises implementing systems for monitoring, control, and surveillance of the fishery and trade, while improving the collection and reporting of relevant data.
The ministry said that a crucial component of the plan is raising awareness among stakeholders and the public about lobster species and sustainable fishing practices. It noted that the strategies and actions outlined in the plan are designed to meet these objectives, which will ultimately enhance the development of the lobster fishery and ensure the sustainable management of the resource. It also said that resorts and guesthouses represent the primary market for commercial lobster, followed by restaurants and other local markets.
The ministry also said that discussions are ongoing with international partners to further develop the fishing sector of the Maldives, with a particular focus on expanding the diamondback squid fishery.