Maldives' Shark Sanctuary Threatened by Gulper Fishing Plan
The Maldives, renowned for its shark sanctuary, is facing a controversial decision. Established in 2010, the sanctuary protects over 30 species and has made the Maldives a top diving destination. However, the government plans to reopen gulper shark fishing on 1 November 2025, sparking debate and opposition from locals.
Gulper sharks are targeted for their livers, rich in squalene, a compound used in various industries. However, fisheries collapse quickly, with populations declining drastically. Legalizing fishing puts all deep-diving sharks and rays at risk of bycatch and disrupts ocean nutrient flow. The Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) conducted a joint survey in 2022, highlighting the threat to four out of the five historically targeted species, all listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Shark diving alone generates over US$14.4 million in direct revenue in the Maldives, with an additional US$51.4 million flowing into the local economy. The sanctuary status has made the Maldives one of the safest places for sharks, attracting divers from around the world. More than three-quarters of Maldivians oppose the plan to reopen fishing, valuing the sanctuary's environmental and economic benefits.
The Maldivian government's decision to reopen gulper shark fishing threatens the sanctuary status and the local economy. With strong opposition from locals and the clear environmental risks, the government must reconsider its plans to protect the marine ecosystem and the country's tourism industry.
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