Maldives bets on seaweed farming to diversify economy
Government identifies five mariculture zones as officials say rapidly expanding seaweed industry could rival tuna exports and attract new investment
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldives is accelerating plans to build a nationwide mariculture industry centered on seaweed farming, with officials identifying five dedicated development zones and promoting the sector as a future economic pillar alongside the country’s globally renowned tuna fishery and tourism industry.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to diversify an economy that has long depended on tourism and fishing, making it more resilient to climate change, fluctuating visitor numbers and shifts in global seafood markets. State media reported that authorities are already seeing encouraging results from pilot seaweed cultivation projects.
Mariculture refers to the farming of marine organisms such as seaweed, shellfish and fish in coastal waters. The practice has become a fast-growing global industry as demand rises for products used in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers and biodegradable packaging.
To support the expansion, the government has designated five areas for mariculture development, including Bodu Thiladhunmathi, Raa Atoll, Meemu Atoll, Thaa Atoll and a lagoon located about two kilometers from Maaniyaafushi.
Officials say concentrating infrastructure and investment in these locations will help establish a dedicated marine farming industry across the island nation.
State Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Mohamed Muththalib pointed to a pilot project on Fehendhoo island in Baa Atoll as evidence of the sector’s potential.
According to the minister, a company that began cultivating roughly 100 kilograms of seaweed has rapidly expanded production and now harvests around 63 metric tons of dried seaweed every month.
The output is equivalent to approximately five shipping containers of exports each month, demonstrating that commercial-scale seaweed farming is already viable in the Maldives, the minister said.
Officials believe continued expansion could eventually generate revenue comparable to, or even exceeding, that of the country’s traditional skipjack tuna industry, which has long been one of the Maldives’ most important export sectors and a major source of employment.
The government also says investor interest is growing, with additional proposals for seaweed cultivation under review. To encourage participation, authorities have introduced a dedicated Mariculture Scheme offering financial assistance to businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to enter the sector.
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