The Maldivian government is to lift the lifting of a 15-year ban on shark fishing in November.
The move has sparked concern from conservationists over potential long-term damage to the ecosystem and the Maldives’ tourism-reliant economy. The direct revenue from shark divers has been estimated to be US$14.4 million, with scuba diving in general estimated to generate US$43 million.
The reversal of the ban is primarily to restart the gulper shark fishery, the longline fishery for Centrophorus granulosus. The gulper shark is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Maldives president Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced the plan whilst addressing the residents of Kulhudhuffushi City, as part of his ongoing tour of the inhabited islands of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll.
The decision highlights a conflict between short-term economic benefits and the long-term sustainability of the Maldives’ reputation as a luxury tourism destination and a vital shark sanctuary.
Gulper sharks live from 50 m to 1500 m. They can live for nearly 30 years.
References
Johanna S. Zimmerhackel et al, Evidence of increased economic benefits from shark-diving tourism in the Maldives, Marine Policy, Volume 100, 2019, Pages 21-26,
