News Desk
MALE’ — The United Kingdom has suspended tariffs on tuna imports from the Maldives effective 20 May 2026, in a development that opens wider market access for Maldivian fishermen while reducing costs for British consumers.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu welcomed the decision, saying it would strengthen fishermen’s incomes, support island livelihoods and expand opportunities for 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,” he said, adding that the milestone reflects the close partnership between the two countries.
Nick Low, UK High Commissioner to Maldives, described it as a win on both sides. “The UK is suspending tariffs on tuna, helping bring prices down in the UK while opening better market access for Maldivian tuna,” he said. “A win for affordability and sustainable tuna, caught one fish at a time.”
The Maldives’ pole-and-line method, which catches tuna one fish at a time using a rod and line rather than nets, is widely regarded as one of the most sustainable fishing practices in the world. It produces no bycatch and does not damage the ocean floor, giving Maldivian tuna a strong environmental credential in premium markets like the United Kingdom.
The tariff suspension comes at a significant moment for the Maldivian fishing industry. MIFCO, the state-owned fishing company, has seen revenue fall sharply in recent years and the government has been working to rebuild the sector’s commercial foundations. Improved access to the UK market, one of the world’s largest consumers of canned and fresh tuna, provides a meaningful boost to that effort.
