The government has decided to permit processing and exportation of sharks accidentally caught and killed while using setlines.

Fisheries Ministry drafted regulations on setline fishing and opened them for public feedback following Cabinet's approval to introduce setline fishing for tuna in Maldives in March this year.

As per the rules, sharks and other non-target species caught on setlines can be processed as per internationally recognised standards. Under the regulation, targeted fishing of sharks remains prohibited.

Fisheries Ministry emphasised that this new regulation is meant to ensure fishermen adhere to the best practices in setline fishing. As such, processing and exportation of sharks will be allowed for licensed entities only. However, shark products will remain prohibited in the Maldivian market.

The Ministry has invited the public to submit any feedback or complaints regarding these regulations by noon next Sunday.