Fish exports from the Maldives increased by 92 percent last year. The volume of fish purchased by companies also rose during the same period, according to a report by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).
In 2025, the Maldives exported 36,538 metric tonnes of fish, marking a 92 percent increase compared to 2024.
The rise in fish exports is largely attributed to a significant increase in the export of frozen tuna. Exports of frozen tuna grew by 158 percent, reaching 35,181.5 metric tonnes. Additionally, exports of canned or pouched fish products increased by 9 percent, totalling 510.8 metric tonnes. Exports of smoked fish also rose by 32 percent in 2025, amounting to 364.5 metric tonnes.
Companies involved in the fisheries sector also recorded notable growth in fish purchases. In 2025, the volume of fish purchased increased by 66 percent. This was mainly driven by an 80 percent rise in tuna purchases, which reached 32,000 metric tonnes.
Apart from regular tuna, purchases of yellowfin tuna also increased by 20 percent, exceeding 2,000 tonnes during the year.
Fish and fish products continue to make up the largest share of the Maldives’ exports. Increasing revenue from the fisheries sector and strengthening its contribution to the economy remains a key government priority. To achieve this, efforts are underway to expand fish processing capacity and improve storage capabilities.
The government aims to increase fish processing capacity ninefold within the next three years, according to the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources.