Great news for British shoppers and Maldivian fishermen. The UK is suspending tariffs on tuna, helping bring prices down in the UK while opening better market access for Maldivian tuna. A win for affordability and sustainable tuna, caught one fish at a time. 🎣🐟
https://t.co/3opM4F9ypZ
MSPEA warmly welcomes the decision to include Maldivian tuna products in the latest tariff suspension measures announced under the updated UK Trade Tariff guidance on Duty Suspensions and Autonomous Tariff Quotas. @MFAORmv
The Ministry welcomes the UK’s decision to suspend tariffs on tuna products from the Maldives. This is a very positive step that gives Maldivian tuna a fair opportunity to compete in the UK market. While the Maldives is currently the 9th largest supplier of tuna to the UK, our products are leading in the sustainability segment, and this move further strengthens the recognition of the sustainability credentials of our fisheries.
We extend special appreciation to President @Mmuizzu for his strong leadership in prioritising the fisheries sector and advancing strategic international partnerships.
Most importantly, the benefits of this decision will flow directly to our fishers, their communities, and our processing sector.
I warmly welcome the United Kingdom’s decision to suspend tariffs on tuna imports effective 20th May 2026.
This important development will support British consumers while delivering meaningful benefits to the Maldives’ fisheries sector, strengthening fishermen’s incomes, supporting island livelihoods, and expanding opportunities for sustainably caught Maldivian tuna in the UK market.
The Maldives is globally recognised for its world-leading pole-and-line tuna industry and its commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices. This milestone reflects the close partnership between the Maldives and the UK and the importance both countries place on sustainable trade and economic resilience.
I thank the UK Government and all partners who contributed to this positive step forward for our fishermen and our economy. 🇲🇻🇬🇧
The Ministry congratulates all stakeholders across the fisheries sector, particularly our tuna fishermen and the processing industry, on this significant milestone. With this expansion, the Maldives’ entire tuna fishery is now effectively MSC certified, reinforcing our standing as a global leader in sustainable fisheries.
This achievement reflects years of dedication, collaboration, and sacrifice by the industry, the Government, and our international partners. It has been made possible in part through sustained engagement at the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, as well as coordinated efforts among G16 like-minded coastal states and Coastal State Alliance to support the recovery of yellowfin tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean.
This expansion opens the door to improved market opportunities for Maldivian tuna products, while ensuring the continued protection of our marine environment and the livelihoods of our fishing communities.
Big step forward for Maldives fisheries 🇲🇻
MSC certification now expanded to include yellowfin tuna (pole-and-line & handline) — following stock recovery and years of FIP progress.
Sustainability + livelihoods, hand in hand.
#MSC#Tuna#SustainableFisheries
MSPEA strongly condemns the false news circulating about MIFCO being banned from the EU and UK. This is completely untrue and risks damaging the global reputation of Maldives tuna. We urge media outlets to verify facts before publication. #MaldivesTuna#MSPEA
Maldives Seafood Processor's and Exporter's Association (MSPEA) emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable solutions to secure the future of the Maldives tuna industry. 🐟🇲🇻 #TunaIndustry#Sustainability#Maldives#SeafoodSolutions
MSPEA had a constructive inaugural meeting with Hon. Minister Ahmed Shiyam, @Shiyamaldives. Thankful for your willingness to engage and collaborate. Looking forward to working together to strengthen the fisheries sector of Maldives.