Top Maldives Fish Catches

The Maldives boasts a rich fishing tradition, with its industry historically serving as the backbone of the nation’s economy and culture. The country’s top fish catches are dominated by tuna species, particularly skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), which is the most important commercial fish, followed by yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares). Other significant catches include grouper, mahi-mahi, and reef fish. Maldivian fishing is renowned for its sustainable pole-and-line methods, a practice passed down for generations and globally recognized for its minimal environmental impact. The industry has evolved from subsistence and local trade to a major export sector, with tuna products shipped worldwide, making the Maldives a leading example of sustainable fisheries management.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.