Agreements pertaining to the Laamu Integrated Maritime Hub Project have been signed with a Chinese company, aiming to accomplish the commitments made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The contract laying groundworks for this transformative endeavour was signed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maldives Post Limited (MPL) Mohamed Wajeeh and the General Manager of CAMC Engineering Li Wei Wei.
Outlined within the agreement are details of six subprojects:
- Launching offshore bunkering services
- Developing a cruise terminal
- Establishing a super yacht marina
- Developing Gaadhoo as an Eco-resort
- Establishing a facility to store regionally produced food items
- Building a transshipment port
Providing insight into the developmental project, CEO Wajeeh underscored MPL's ongoing efforts to secure a relevant market. He envisioned attracting international shipping lines to the transshipment port, anticipating a significant economic boost from even a single shipping line. Discussions are also underway with cruise operators to initiate cruise terminal operations.
MPL disclosed proposals from two companies to assist in providing bunkering services. While Vitol Bunkering, currently involved in developing bunkering facilities in Haa Alif Atoll, is one of them, the second company expressing interest hails from Dubai.
The establishment of a commercial port and a harbour including logistics is a commitment outlined in the governments' manifesto.