The government is implementing a multi-pronged strategy to significantly increase national food storage capacity and diversify import sources, the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed has revealed.
During a press conference held by the Special Cabinet Committee, set up in response to ongoing Middle East and Gulf tensions, Minister Saeed hailed the efforts as a critical move to insulate the nation from potential global supply chain disruptions sparked by international conflict.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel during the briefing, highlighted that the escalating joint US-Israeli war against Iran poses a significant challenge to import-dependent countries like the Maldives, making food security a top governmental priority.
As Chair of the Committee, Minister Khaleel stated that proactive steps are being taken to ensure the continuous and reliable availability of essential food items.
"We are currently carrying out negotiations with several countries. In particular, we are looking to secure supply of products identified by alternative land and sea routes," he explained.
Minister Khaleel detailed efforts to identify and establish new trade linkages with alternative international markets beyond those on which the Maldives currently depends.
Central to this strategy is a major initiative to expand the country’s physical infrastructure. Minister Saeed confirmed that work is underway to increase the national capacity to strengthen the storage system of imported goods.
He emphasised that these measures are designed to guarantee access to basic commodities despite volatile changes in the global environment.
In a significant step toward long-term security, Minister Saeed also revealed the Cabinet's recent decision to establish a comprehensive nationwide network for shipping and logistics.
"That includes the main shipping lines. That’s because the government wants to ensure the continuous flow of goods in every season. Then other logistics work is now being done with the private sector," he said.
Addressing immediate concerns, the Ministers confirmed that there are currently no difficulties in importing the 26 items on the nation’s list of basic food staples. However, Minister Saeed assured that contingency plans are actively being developed.
"If such a situation occurs, the work of establishing linkages with available markets is also being done," he stated, underscoring the government's commitment to preemptive action to safeguard the nation's food supply.