The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has released the updated list of fruits and vegetables designated as essential food items for import into the Maldives. The revision follows President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to import and sell ten types of fruits and ten types of vegetables commonly consumed in the Maldives through the State Trading Organisation (STO).
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 STO. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to implementing its manifesto policies, aimed at ensuring food security in the Maldives.
In line with this decision, the Economic Ministry has updated the list of essential imported food items. According to the Ministry, a total of 23 items have now been added, and STO has been tasked with importing and wholesaling these varieties.
Banana
Apple
Orange
Lime
Passion Fruit
Mango
Papaya
Watermelon
Chilli
Grapes
Red onion
Ginger
Carrots
Eggplant
Sweet potato
Garlic
Potato
Cabbage
Pumpkin
Spinach
In addition, yellow lentils, chicken eggs and coconut have been declared essential food items by the Ministry of Economic Development.
Prices of items on the newly updated list have risen in recent weeks. Under the President’s directive, importing and selling these goods through STO will help stabilise market prices of these goods and ensure that the public can access fruits and vegetables at affordable rates.
If the price of any vegetable or fruit rises in the Maldivian market, the government acts to mitigate the price hikes by instructing STO to import the item and reduce prices. STO recently imported a shipment of oranges to sell at cheaper prices following a recent increase in the market price of oranges.