Maldives Strengthens Global Presence at the World’s Leading Seafood Exhibition

The Maldives has reinforced its presence on the international stage through its successful participation in Seafood Expo Global, the world’s largest seafood trade event, held in Barcelona, Spain.

The exhibition, which took place from April 21 to 23, brought together representatives from the Maldives Fisheries and Ocean Resources Marketing and Promotion Corporation, along with major industry players such as Horizon Fisheries, Ensis Fisheries, Blue Saltwater, and Big Fish Maldives.

According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the expo is a key global platform for the seafood industry, offering Maldivian exporters valuable opportunities to connect with international buyers and investors.

A major highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “From Maldives to the World.” Speakers included Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, Josh Madeira of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and MIFCO Strategic Consultant Athif Shakoor.

The discussion focused on the progress of the Maldives’ fisheries sector, particularly its commitment to sustainable fishing practices and the increasing global recognition of responsible methods. Panelists also examined recent evaluations from the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program.

In a significant development this April, the Seafood Watch program—widely used by U.S. companies when sourcing seafood—issued a country-specific rating for Maldivian tuna fisheries for the first time in its history.

After earlier concerns raised in 2017 over declining yellowfin tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean, the latest assessment recognizes Maldivian fisheries as sustainable. As a result, Maldivian tuna has earned a “Best Choice” rating, strengthening the country’s reputation in the global seafood market.