Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has announced that all the necessary preparations to launch the project of developing a bunkering port in Gaadhoo, Laamu Atoll. The minister made the remarks at a public gathering during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's official visit to Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo, Laamu Atoll.
Addressing the residents of Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo, Minister Ibrahim Faisal stated that while the land reclamation to develop Kadhdhoo Airport commenced aiming to provide international services, several efforts are ongoing to establish bunkering facilities in Gaadhoo. The current administration has an overarching goal of ensuring that the Maldives will be a prominent destination to provide bunkering services by the end of this term. A term sheet outlining the agreements of providing the required facilities to provide bunkering services, has been signed with Vitol Bunkers, a world-renowned company which provides the service.
Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has mentioned on a previous stance that the preparations to launch bunkering services will be officiated in June. Furthermore, the government disclosed plans to develop bunkering services in two phases. While the initial phase encompasses off-port bunkering, the subsequent phase entails the establishment of a port to facilitate the provision of the service.