Minister Ahmed Shiyam met with H.E. Ahmed Mahloof, Ambassador of the Maldives to Japan.

Minister Ahmed Shiyam met with H.E. Ahmed Mahloof, Ambassador of the Maldives to Japan, to discuss ongoing and future collaboration between the Maldives and Japan in the fisheries sector. The meeting reaffirmed the strong bilateral partnership and explored new opportunities to advance sustainable, high-value fisheries.

The discussion highlighted the transformative support provided through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including the introduction of the yellowfin tuna ring and the ikejime technique, which have significantly improved tuna handling practices and overall fish quality.

In parallel, separate research initiatives supported under JICA have demonstrated clear improvements in the preservation and longevity of bait, as well as the development of value-added fisheries products across different islands.

The Minister further acknowledged that parallel research efforts conducted with JICA have demonstrated clear improvements in the preservation and longevity of bait, as well as the development of value-added fisheries products across different islands.

Looking ahead, the meeting also explored mariculture as a potential area for future collaboration, recognising opportunities to diversify the fisheries sector while strengthening sustainability. The importance of close collaboration with Japan at the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and other international and regional platforms was also reaffirmed, as both countries continue to work together to advance sustainable, high-value fisheries.