Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has said that a huge revenue can be generated from the fisheries industry if longline fishing is allowed.

The Cabinet had decided to permit longline fishing in the Maldives again, compiling a set of rules and regulations for longline fishing.

However, some associations, fishermen, and the public have been expressing their concern over the government's decision to permit longline fishing.

Speaking at a Press Conference held at the Fisheries Ministry today, Minister Shiyam stated that the Maldives is permitting longline fishing to further diversify the industry in the country. He further stated that this would also best utilize the quota received by the country.

"longline fishing is something that the people of Maldives can do to increase their profits. Why shouldn't we do it?," he said.

According to the minister, longline fishing has the potential to generate an annual revenue of MVR 1.2 billion. Currently, fishing earns MVR 80 million a year.

The minister added that the country’s largest area is the seas and the sea should be used to the fullest.