Presidential candidate Ilyas Labeeb, representing The Democrats, has unveiled plans to transform the main port of Addu City into an international transshipment hub, signaling a significant development for trade in the region.
Addressing a rally in Hulhudhoo, Ilyas underscored the substantial enhancements he intends to bring to the trading operations conducted through Addu City's primary port. The key aspects of his proposal include the following:
The vision of The Democrats involves converting the port into an international transshipment center, facilitating the import and export of goods to and from various countries worldwide.
Additionally, he also announced the establishment of a duty-free zone within the port, which would encourage economic activity and the re-exportation of goods to other parts of the Maldives.
Further, Ilyas outlined plans to waive the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) on tourism investments for a period of three years aiming to promote tourism development not only in Addu City but also in Fuvahmulah City, Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, and Shaviyani Atoll.
In addition to the economic improvements, Ilyas pledged to enhance the healthcare sector in Addu City and the region. He expressed intentions to establish top-tier hospitals in Addu, Kulhudhuffushi, and Male' City, ensuring that the local population benefits from advanced medical facilities.