The State Trading Organisation (STO) has announced that a shipment of essential goods has departed from Türkiye bound for the Maldives.
The decision to import staple foods from Türkiye was deliberated during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's official visit to the country in December of last year. The President emphasised the government's commitment to fostering self-reliance among the populace and reducing dependency on any single nation for food imports. He also revealed plans to diversify food sources by procuring basic items from multiple countries.
Additionally, President Dr. Muizzu disclosed that Türkiye has agreed to supply an excess of flour, sugar, and rice, exceeding the Maldives' annual requirements. In addition, he said that imports of onions, eggs, and potatoes from other nations are underway.
STO has not yet disclosed the arrival date of the Turkish shipment. The organisation is engaged in negotiations with various countries to secure staple food supplies for the Maldives. Presently, STO imports sugar from Dubai and wheat flour from Sri Lanka.