President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Cabinet has approved the bulk import of ten types of fruits, ten types of vegetables, and other essential food items through the State Trading Organisation (STO) for sale in the Maldivian market.
In a post shared on his official X account, the President stated that, in addition to sugar, rice, and flour, items such as lentils, eggs, and potatoes will also be imported and made available to the public.
This decision underscores the government’s commitment to implementing the policies outlined in the President’s manifesto, aimed at ensuring food security in the Maldives.
Meanwhile, STO has already brought in a shipment of oranges, which are being sold at lower prices. While oranges currently retail for between USD 0.65 and USD 0.83 each, this is roughly USD 4.70 to 5.20 per kilogram. STO’s new shipment will be sold at USD 2.26 per kilogram, from the STO Peoples’ Choice outlet.
The government aims to provide essential goods at reduced prices when market costs rise. To facilitate this, STO regularly intervenes to stabilise prices. Recently, STO imported onions and sold at reduced prices to counter market price hikes. In addition, the most expensive items are imported and sold at discounted prices during the month of Ramadan.