President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has identified agricultural expansion as a central priority of his administration, declaring that national food self-sufficiency is essential to reducing reliance on imports, lowering associated costs, and promoting healthier consumption. The announcement came in a social media post marking Farmers’ Day, where the president extended his good wishes to all those engaged in strengthening the agricultural sector.
President Muizzu has placed particular emphasis on elevating agriculture to the status of a recognised industry. His government has established a ministry dedicated exclusively to agricultural affairs, a move intended to give the sector institutional weight and direction.
The ministry is extending direct support to farmers, including training, tools, and other resources. The administration is also prioritising the development of infrastructure and facilities to improve the domestic marketing of agricultural products, aiming to create a more resilient supply chain.
The president’s strategy is anchored by a flagship initiative: a large-scale agricultural project in Uthuru Thilafalhu. Government officials expect the project to reduce the nation’s dependence on external food sources and to lower national expenditure on imports.
The administration has also stressed that self-sufficiency will ensure citizens have access to food items certified as healthy, linking the policy to both economic and public health outcomes.
President Muizzu framed his vision within the country’s agricultural heritage, noting that our ancestors had long demonstrated the fertility of the nation’s soil. He expressed hope that agriculture could be expanded to a level capable of ensuring comprehensive food security.
"Our ancestors have already demonstrated that Maldivian soil is fertile and suitable for cultivating beneficial fruits, vegetables, grains, and root crops," President Muizzu wrote on social media.
He continued: "I extend my sincere good wishes on Farmers' Day to all parties working diligently to advance and expand this industry, conveying the fervent hope that agriculture in the Maldives can be expanded sufficiently to ensure national self-sufficiency and the permanent establishment of food security."
The president’s remarks coincided with the annual observance of Farmers’ Day on 15 October. This year’s theme underscored the importance of collective effort, stressing the goal of better food and a more prosperous future.