The Maldives, a small island nation famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, is now facing a big question: What is China really doing in these waters? President Mohamed Muizzu’s government has been holding talks with China about placing Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) in the Indian Ocean. These devices are designed to gather data about the ocean—things like temperature, chemicals, and fish movements. But many people, both here and in nearby countries, are worried. Is this just science, or is China spying?
These discussions with China come at a difficult time for the Maldivian fishing industry, which has been declining. The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources says the talks are about teamwork to help solve this problem. Yet, little has been shared—what are these devices really for, and why is China so involved? Chinese research officials have also met with the Tourism and Environment Ministry and the weather department. Reports suggest China is pushing to get approval to install these FADs soon, but the government hasn’t given a clear picture of the plan.
This isn’t China’s first visit to these waters. In early 2024, a large Chinese ship, Xiang Yang Hong 03, stayed for a month. It’s one of China’s most high-tech research vessels, loaded with advanced equipment. The Maldives government said it was only docking for supplies and crew swaps. But India, a close neighbor, wasn’t convinced. They suspected it might be collecting secret information, not just studying fish. This happened as tensions between Maldives and India were already rising, making people question China’s intentions.
Then, on February 19, 2025, President Muizzu signed a new deal with China’s South China Sea Institute of Oceanography. This group is massive—over 600 staff, 100 scientists, and many researchers studying oceans worldwide. The agreement allows China to research the marine environment here and take data back. The Environment Ministry calls it a “major step” for protecting the seas. Still, no one knows the specifics. What are they studying? And why does China want so much data from this small nation?
China’s Spying History
This isn’t just a Maldives issue. China has been spotted sneaking around elsewhere too. In the South China Sea, nations like Vietnam and the Philippines have reported Chinese “research” ships mapping their waters. Some believe these ships were scouting military locations, not just fish. Near Australia, Chinese vessels have appeared close to key trade routes, raising concerns. Even in the Pacific, small countries like Tonga have seen Chinese boats gathering data without permission.Could something similar be happening in the Maldives?
People fear these FADs might be more than they appear. What if they’re not only tracking fish but also listening to underwater signals or watching passing ships? These islands sit on busy trade routes, and big countries care about who controls this area. China insists it’s all for science, but with so little openness from the government, trust is hard to come by.
What Does This Mean for Maldives?
President Muizzu promised transparency when he took office. He said the people would always have rights to marine resources. But these quiet deals with China don’t feel transparent. The Environment Protection Agency says this will help uncover more about the seas here. That sounds positive—but why does China get to keep the data too?
India, just 70 nautical miles away in Lakshadweep, is keeping a close eye. They don’t like Chinese ships so near and have warned about China’s actions in the Indian Ocean before. With Maldives caught between these powerful nations, clear answers are needed. Is this about science, or is it spying?
The fishing industry needs help, and the seas need protection. But these secret agreements raise doubts. If China is here to assist, why not share everything? Until the government explains, the question remains: What’s really happening in these waters?
