Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has said that, in collaboration with Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), the government has identified dedicated routes to transport goods to all parts of the country throughout the year.
He made the remarks while addressing a press conference at the President’s Office, outlining measures taken to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, particularly during the month of Ramadan.
The minister said extensive efforts had been undertaken to facilitate the smooth distribution of goods during Ramadan, noting that managing the prices of commodities and ensuring their availability without placing a burden on the public remains one of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s foremost priorities.
“One of the President’s key priorities is to manage the prices of goods, maintain affordability for the public and ensure uninterrupted availability of commodities in the market,” minister said. He added that, despite prevailing challenges, the government has taken proactive steps to prevent any deterioration in the supply situation. Several initiatives have been implemented this year, including significant adjustments following the Ramadan period.
The minister noted that in previous years only three items (flour, sugar and rice) were categorised as basic food staples. This year, the list has been expanded to include 23 additional items. These comprise 10 types of fruit, 10 types of vegetables and three other essential food products. Arrangements are being made to ensure that these items are available in the market at the lowest possible prices, he said.
According to the minister, the expanded range of essential goods will be available in cities and across the Greater Malé area. For islands with populations above and below 3,000 residents, distribution will be facilitated through agents of the State Trading Organisation (STO). He further stated that the government has prioritised the transportation of goods and has made arrangements to facilitate the clearance of cargo without duty charges at Kulhudhuffushi Port noting similar arrangements have also been established at Hithadhoo Port in Addu City.
In addition, MPL has introduced designated nationwide cargo routes under an initiative known as “Anchor”, aimed at transporting goods from one end of the country to the other.
“This initiative is designed to ensure the uninterrupted supply of goods to people living in the atolls and islands, in every season and under every circumstance. To strengthen distribution and safeguard supplies, MPL has appointed dedicated carriers for specific ports,” said the minister.
The minister also noted that STO is working to enhance its operational capacity, including the expansion of storage and warehousing facilities, as part of broader efforts to strengthen national supply chain resilience.