India and the Maldives in Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster bilateral ties in fisheries and aquaculture, marking a significant step toward sustainable marine resource development. The agreement, formalized on July 25 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the Maldives, was announced by the Press Information Bureau (PIB). It is one of six MoUs exchanged between the two nations during the visit.
Signed between India’s Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Maldives’ Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the MoU aims to foster collaboration in sustainable tuna and deep-sea fisheries, aquaculture, and eco-tourism. It also emphasizes innovation, scientific research, and capacity building to drive long-term growth in the sector.
The agreement outlines key initiatives, including enhancing the fisheries value chain, advancing mariculture, facilitating trade, and promoting sustainable resource management. The Maldives plans to strengthen its fish processing capabilities by investing in cold storage infrastructure and expanding its aquaculture sector through hatchery development, improved production efficiency, and diversification of cultured species.
Additionally, the MoU will support training and knowledge exchange programs, focusing on aquatic animal health, biosecurity screening, aquaculture farm management, and technical skills in refrigeration, mechanical engineering, and marine engineering. These efforts aim to build a skilled workforce and ensure sustainable growth in the fisheries industry.
