Gov’t Invites Chinese Investors to Strengthen Maldives’ Mariculture Industry

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has extended an invitation to Chinese investors to support the growth of the Maldives’ mariculture sector. 

The appeal came during a meeting with Luo Zhaohui, Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China.

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Minister Shiyam is currently attending the third China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy Development Cooperation alongside Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef. The forum, which runs from 15 to 17 December, is co-hosted by the Maldives and CIDCA, with the theme “The Future of the Blue Indian Ocean Development, Practice of the Global South.”

During the meeting, Minister Shiyam underscored the commitment of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration to the advancement of the mariculture industry. Highlighting its growth potential, he said there is significant opportunity for Chinese investors, given the untapped prospects within the industry.

The Minister noted that the administration has already identified four key locations across the Maldives as focal points for mariculture development. Investments will be critical to ensuring sustainable growth in these regions, with a particular emphasis on building capacity and developing skilled human resources in the mariculture sector.

Minister Shiyam also shared updates on ongoing efforts to strengthen the fisheries industry under Dr Muizzu’s administration. These efforts include expanding fish processing capacities and promoting sustainable fishing practices that align with environmental conservation goals.

During discussions, Minister Shiyam reaffirmed the close historical and diplomatic relations between the Maldives and China, describing them as grounded in mutual respect for sovereignty. He expressed optimism about building on these relationships in the future.

The China-Indian Ocean Region Forum represents a significant platform for dialogue and collaboration on sustainable development in the region. With its focus on blue economy initiatives, the forum serves as an opportunity to enhance regional partnerships and economic resilience through sustainable and cooperative practices.