The Maldives is one of 17 shark sanctuaries in the world and the only one in the Indian Ocean. But this sanctuary is now at risk. 

In November 2025, the Maldivian government plans to reopen gulper shark fishing and legalise vertical longlining, a move that risks not only biodiversity and food security, but also the Maldives’ global reputation as a leader in ocean protection.

Gulper sharks are among the slowest-reproducing sharks on Earth, taking more than two decades to mature and give birth to just one or two pups every few years. When gulper shark fisheries last operated in the Maldives, they collapsed in only a few years, wiping out more than 90 per cent of the population. To date, there is no evidence the species has recovered.

Allowing gulper shark fishing again would offer only fleeting profits but have lasting harm. Populations may crash within two to five years, destabilising ecosystems that rely on deepwater sharks to cycle nutrients between ocean layers. Furthermore, vertical longlining poses a severe threat to numerous already endangered sharks and rays, including iconic species that underpin the nation’s dive tourism industry, which would be indiscriminately caught as bycatch.

But the impacts go well beyond the sea. Shark diving already generates more than US $65 million annually for Maldivian communities – far surpassing the gains of a collapsed fishery. 

Now is the time to speak up. Urge the Maldivian government to keep gulper shark fishing banned and protect the only shark sanctuary in the Indian Ocean.

Why your voice matters

Last year, the Maldivian government reversed its decision to grant new longline fishing licenses, which could have allowed landing sharks as bycatch, after more than 30,000 people signed a petition. 

Proof that together, we can prevent gulper shark fishing to safeguard biodiversity, local livelihoods and preserve the Maldives’ shark sanctuary.

What happens next?

We will deliver this petition directly to the Maldivian government and amplify it through national media, highlighting the risks of reopening the gulper shark fishery. 

Together, we can help the Maldives maintain its reputation as a global leader in shark conservation and protect its marine life for future generations.