Britain confirms tuna tariff suspension applies to all countries, not just Maldives

It has emerged that the United Kingdom’s decision to suspend tariffs on tuna imports is not specific to Maldives, but applies to all countries exporting tuna to the UK.

Information released by the UK Department for Business and Trade confirms that the tariff suspension is not a concession granted to any single nation, but part of a broader measure covering all tuna‑importing countries.

The UK government said the change is intended to ease the financial burden on households amid rising living costs. The suspension, which will take effect in the coming weeks, covers tuna, fruits, fruit juices, pasta and couscous, and will remain in place until 31 December 2028.

The move has drawn criticism in Maldives from those who argue it is not a diplomatic achievement by the government.

In an interview, British Ambassador to Maldives Nick Low said that although the tariff cut applies globally, Maldives stands to benefit the most.

He noted that under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, Maldives is classified as a middle‑income country, meaning Maldivian tuna previously faced a 20 percent tariff when entering the UK market.

Great news for British shoppers and Maldivian fishermen. The UK is suspending tariffs on tuna, helping bring prices down in the UK while opening better market access for Maldivian tuna. A win for affordability and sustainable tuna, caught one fish at a time. ????????… pic.twitter.com/0rX1nbJaSC

— Nick Low (@NickDLow) May 20, 2026

This significantly reduced the competitiveness of Maldivian fish, he said, but the shift to zero tariff removes that barrier.

“We didn’t cut tariffs on a particular country alone because WTO rules don’t allow it,” the ambassador said.

Low added that British consumers have a strong preference for Maldivian tuna, and that Maldives exports around GBP 17 million worth of fish to the UK annually despite the high tariff.

He said the tariff suspension was the result of extensive work between the two governments.

Before the change, countries such as Ecuador, Mauritius and Seychelles already exported tuna to the UK duty‑free under their free trade agreements.

With the new suspension, Maldivian tuna can now compete on equal footing with these countries in the British market.