Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has called for countries to cooperate and use modern technology to tackle waste problems.
He made the appeal at the Zero Waste Forum in Istanbul, Türkiye.
Speaking at the High-Level Ministerial Panel on Agriculture: Reducing Post-Harvest Losses – Enhancing Efficiency in the Food Supply Chain, the Minister highlighted food security challenges in the Maldives, noting difficulties in producing enough food sustainably. He noted that the Maldives’ geography and dispersed islands make food storage and transport difficult, which in turn leads to higher food spoilage. He said the government has introduced an “Agri Boat” system to help transport agricultural products between regions.
The Minister highlighted the Maldives’ environmentally friendly fisheries sector and government efforts to further develop it.
Speaking on food waste, the Minister warned that food waste levels are very high in the Maldives. He noted that food waste is especially high in tourism-related sectors such as resorts. The government is working with the World Food Programme (WFP) to reduce food waste under food safety laws and regulations. Measures being undertaken include expanding cold storage facilities and promoting value-added food products to reduce spoilage, he said.
The Minister further stressed the importance of stronger cooperation between stakeholders and countries to address the challenges faced. He said progress depends not only on technology but also on collaboration and joint effort. He further emphasised the need to support farmers and fishermen with information, modern technology, and financial assistance.
On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Shiyam paid a courtesy call to Türkiye’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı to discuss strengthening cooperation between the Maldives and Türkiye in the fields of agriculture and fisheries. During the meeting, Minister conveyed his sincere appreciation to the government of Türkiye for its continued support and assistance to the Maldives.
According to the Fisheries Ministry, discussions also focused on the importance of advancing the implementation of agriculture and fisheries related activities outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) signed between the two countries. Both ministers emphasised the need to translate the commitments under these into concrete actions and collaborative initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for both nations.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of both countries’ commitment to further strengthening ties and expanding cooperation in support of sustainable development, food security, and the advancement of the agriculture and fisheries sectors