The Maldives has reinstated 24-hour access to port limit areas for incoming international cargo vessels, with the change coming into effect today.
This marks the first time in 36 years that this policy—originally implemented for security reasons following the November 3, 1988, mercenary attack on the Maldives—has been amended.
Under the previous regulations, vessels arriving from abroad were prohibited from entering the port between 12:00 AM and 6:00 AM, forcing them to wait outside. This measure was established because the terrorists who carried out the November 3 attack arrived in the Maldives by sea during the early hours of the morning. However, due to the increasing volume of vessels arriving in the country, the government has now removed these restrictions to bolster economic benefits.
In a statement, the Ministry of Transport noted: “…As the number of vessels arriving in the Maldives continues to grow, the government has now decided to establish arrangements allowing port entry at any time to benefit the national economy.” The Ministry further stated that clearance and pilotage services for vessels will now be available 24 hours a day without interruption.
Minister of Transport Mohamed Ameen stated that this is a significant economic step taken under the robust policies of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The Minister highlighted that this change will save costs incurred by vessels having to wait offshore and will provide substantial relief to the business community.
Furthermore, the government believes this decision will establish the Malé Commercial Port as a reliable, international-standard facility. The Ministry of Transport also assured that standards under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code will be fully maintained to ensure the safety and security of vessels.
The business community had previously shared concerns with President Muizzu regarding the difficulties faced due to the lack of 24-hour services at the Malé Commercial Port. This change is viewed as a permanent solution to those concerns.
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