Statistics released by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) show that more than 24,000 tonnes of cargo were handled in the first quarter of this year. This includes both cargo imported into the Maldives and cargo exported from the country.
According to the published figures, a total of 24,782 tonnes of cargo were handled during the first quarter of this year. This represents a 13 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
Looking at imports, 18,908 tonnes of cargo were brought into the Maldives during this period. Meanwhile, exports totalled 5,873 tonnes of goods, according to the statistics.
In terms of transhipment, there was also an increase during this period. A total of 4,277 tonnes of cargo were handled as transhipment, marking a 14 percent rise compared to last year.
For sea-to-air cargo, 322 tonnes were brought into the Maldives in the first quarter of this year. Additionally, 3,955 tonnes of cargo were handled through air-to-air transfers, the statistics show.
Furthermore, 264 freighter movements were recorded at Velana International Airport (VIA). Cargo brought in by airlines to VIA amounted to 2,188 tonnes.
The highest volume of airline cargo to VIA in a single month so far was recorded in March, according to the statistics.
The increase in imported goods is linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, which have led to greater sourcing of goods from various regions. The government has also been working with different airlines to ensure the steady availability of goods in the Maldives, including operating cargo-in-cabin flights.