Delays have been reported in unloading cargo at Male' Commercial Harbour following an increase in the number of new vessels calling at the port.
Maldives State Shipping (MSS) said the rise in new ship arrivals has created congestion, slowing down unloading operations. The company added that cargo movement between Sri Lanka and the Maldives has also been affected due to flight delays and limited space on some of the new vessels, which may result in delays in the receipt of goods.
MSS said it is working to identify the causes of the slowdown and minimise the impact on customers.
The situation follows a major policy shift on January 25, when Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) opened uninterrupted access for foreign vessels to enter Male' Commercial Harbour, the first time in more than 30 years.
According to the Transport Ministry, the change ensures safer vehicle movement, proper permitting, and pilotage services in line with international standards. The ministry said the new system reduces waiting time for vessels outside the harbour and cuts unnecessary costs for operators.
The ministry described the reform as a significant step toward making Male' Commercial Harbour an internationally reliable port. It added that the change is expected to support the development of the Maldives’ maritime transport sector and increase the number of vessels arriving in the country.