π¦ Sharks of the Maldives: Why Protecting Them Matters More Than Ever Tiger shark photo by IslandLensLife π Quick Facts About Sharks in the Maldives π The Maldives introduced a nationwide shark fishing ban in 2010 , becoming a shark sanctuary. π Shark-diving tourism earns roughly USD 14–23 million per year for the Maldives. π One living reef shark can generate USD 30,000–50,000+ in lifetime tourism value. ⚖️ A dead shark is worth only about USD 100–300 for meat/oil. π§© Sharks are keystone predators that keep reefs balanced and healthy. π¨ Allowing shark fishing risks long-term reef damage and a drop in dive tourism. If you’ve ever slipped beneath the waves in the Maldives, you already know this: sharks are not the villains of our ocean — they’re the heartbeat of it. As a diver, I’ve watched these beautiful animals glide through blue water with calm confidence. They’re misunder...