Imports to the Maldives increased by 19 per cent in the first three months of this year compared to the same period last year, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has said.
Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office, the minister said the rise reflects growing demand for goods across the country.
He noted that imports stood at USD 1.48 billion between January and March this year, up from USD 880 million recorded during the same period in 2025.
“From January 2025 to March 2025, Maldives imported goods worth USD 880 million. During the same period this year, imports stood at USD 1.48 billion. So there is a 19 per cent increase in imports. I am talking about demand,” he said.
Minister Saeed added that the government is taking steps to ensure a steady flow of goods into the country, including arranging scheduled shipments over the next three months for petrol and diesel supplies.
He also said efforts are underway to clear containers that were previously stranded in Sri Lanka. The number of containers has reduced significantly from 4,241 last week and is expected to fall further to 1,741 as vessels currently at port and incoming shipments are processed.
According to the minister, a vessel currently at port is carrying 1,200 containers, while an additional 2,500 containers are expected to arrive this week. These include shipments of 500 containers scheduled for 12 April, another 500 on 13 April, and 1,500 containers on 14 April.
The minister said the overall situation is improving as supply chains stabilise and import volumes continue to increase.