Ten types of fruits, ten types of vegetables as well as coconuts, lentils, and chicken eggs will be added to the list of basic commodities alongside rice, sugar and flour, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed said.
The Minister made the remarks while briefing reporters on the government's decision to strengthen food security and ensure essential items are available at affordable prices.
On Wednesday, President Muizzu announced that the Cabinet had approved the bulk import of ten commonly used fruits, ten vegetables most frequently consumed in the Maldives, and other staple food items such as lentils, eggs, and potatoes, through the State Trading Organisation (STO) for sale in the local market.
Speaking at the press conference, Economic Minister Saeed said previous governments had not conducted sufficient reviews of the food items most commonly consumed in the Maldives. As a result, Maldivians continue to face difficulties in accessing essential goods at affordable prices. President Muizzu's aim is to change this by ensuring regular supply and affordability, he said.
The Minister said the list of commonly consumed vegetables and fruits will be reviewed annually, with the ten most widely used items in both categories imported accordingly.
"It will be reviewed annually, but it may also be reviewed earlier. In addition to ten fruits and ten vegetables, rice, sugar, lentils, eggs and potatoes will be imported and sold at lower prices in the market,” he said.
Providing essential commodities at affordable prices and ensuring food security is an important policy of the government. The President’s decision aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by the people.