ABSTRACT

The Republic of the Maldives has become synonymous with luxury tourism, largely due to its vibrant coral reef systems, clear waters and resort islands. The country also has the highest per capita fish consumption in the world, and fishing is the nation’s second largest industry. This chapter investigates how the country has prioritised conservation of marine resources to promote its lucrative tourism and sustainable fishing industries through methods such as banning most forms of net fishing (e.g. purse seining) and shark fishing. The chapter also evaluates potential areas for improvement for coral reef health.