The United Kingdom has temporarily removed import taxes on several food items, including tuna. This change started on 20 May 2026 and will last until 31 December 2028. It removes the old 20% tax on Maldivian tuna. However, this decision has nothing to do with diplomatic efforts by the Muizzu government. It is a normal UK government policy made to help British businesses and consumers who are facing high food prices.
The UK brought in this tax suspension to reduce living costs for British families. Food prices have gone up because of wars in the Middle East. The tax cut covers many items fruits, fruit juices, pasta, couscous, and tuna. It is a general rule that applies to many countries, not just Maldives. The British High Commissioner, Nick Low, called it a “win-win” for British shoppers and sustainable tuna suppliers. No UK official said this was thanks to special talks with the Muizzu government.
The facts are clear, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam, and government officials are claiming full credit. They are calling it a big diplomatic success and a win for their economic policy. Government media is pushing this story strongly for public relations.This is clear political opportunism. The problem of UK taxes on Maldivian fish has been there for many years long before Muizzu became president. This is a general UK decision to help its own people, not a special deal won by the current government.
Reality Check: MIFCO’s Position
The tax removal may help private Maldivian companies in the short term. But the state-owned company MIFCO is not currently exporting large amounts of tuna to the UK.
- Maldives is the UK’s 9th biggest supplier of fish products. The country exports around £16–18 million worth every year. Most of this comes from private companies like Horizon Fisheries.
- MIFCO had problems in the past with UK rules on food safety and quality. In 2025, there were reports that MIFCO failed audits (the Minister denied it was “blacklisted”).
- MIFCO has signed future agreements (for example with UK’s Princess Group) and is making new products like special frozen tuna.
- MIFCO welcomed the tax cut as a new opportunity, which shows they are not yet exporting big volumes.
Important Points
- This is not special for Maldives — many other countries can also benefit.
- The tax cut is only temporary (ends in 2028).
- Past Maldivian governments also worked on this issue. It is not a new success by Muizzu.
This PR shows how the Muizzu government is good at turning normal international news into their own political victory. Instead of PR shows, they should focus on real work solving MIFCO’s export problems, producing more quality tuna, and making long-term trade deals.
