Maldives Makes History as First Nation to Receive Country-Specific "Best Choice" Sustainability Rating

The Maldives has achieved a landmark international recognition for its seafood fishery, becoming the first nation in history to receive a country-specific rating from the prestigious Monterey Bay Aquarium's "Seafood Watch" programme. 

This monumental achievement places Maldivian fishery products in the coveted "Best Choice" category, signaling a significant victory for sustainable fishing practices on the global stage.

The unprecedented rating from Seafood Watch, a programme widely influential in guiding seafood purchasing decisions in the United States, marks a "historic step forward in assessing sustainable fisheries in Maldives and globally," according to a statement from the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources. 

This distinction is particularly noteworthy given widespread concerns about seafood sustainability in other parts of the Indian Ocean, with the Maldives now set to define the benchmark for responsible marine resource management in the region.

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam lauded the achievement as a "proud moment for Maldives," emphasising that the "first-ever country-specific rating from 'Seafood Watch' is proof that Maldives' fisheries model, which is based on sustainability and responsibility, has been accepted internationally. 

He attributed this success to the dedicated efforts of local fishermen, fish buyers, processors, and the government, all working tirelessly to protect the marine ecosystem while building the nation's economy.

The new "Seafood Watch" guidelines specifically define sustainable seafood fisheries within the Maldives, positioning the country's exports as a preferred choice in the global market. 

The Ministry anticipates that this special rating will unlock lucrative opportunities for Maldivian exporters, particularly in North America, one of the world's most prominent markets for sustainably produced seafood.

"At a time of increasing focus on sustainable fisheries in the global market, this rating will enable the country to secure better prices for its seafood products and keep the country ahead in international competition," the Ministry said, highlighting the economic advantages of this environmental recognition.

This latest accolade further solidifies the Maldives' reputation for sustainable fishing, building upon the existing Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification already awarded to the nation's pole and line skipjack tuna fishery.