Thousands of containers destined for the Maldives that were stranded in Sri Lanka are now being cleared at an accelerated pace, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has said.
Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office by the Special Cabinet Committee formed in response to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the minister said bottlenecks in the clearance process had been addressed over the past week through coordinated efforts by relevant authorities.
According to the minister, 4,241 containers were awaiting clearance in Sri Lanka as of 8 April. This figure has now been reduced to 1,741.
He added that a vessel currently at port is carrying 1,200 containers, while a further 2,500 containers are expected to arrive in the Maldives in the coming days. A vessel scheduled to arrive on 12 April will carry 500 containers, followed by another on 13 April with an additional 500 containers. A third vessel is due on 14 April carrying 1,000 containers along with 500 twenty-foot equivalent units of goods.
Highlighting broader trade trends, the minister noted that imports increased by 19 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared with the same period last year. He attributed the rise to economic growth, higher tourist arrivals and increased demand during Ramadan.
Minister Saeed said discussions are ongoing with seven markets to secure essential commodities and 23 other types of goods, with sourcing arrangements involving China, India, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.
He also pointed to increased air freight capacity, noting that additional airline services have enabled a higher volume of goods to be transported via air cargo.
The minister further assured that oil shipments continue without disruption and said the free trade agreement with China is contributing to smoother import processes.