The government is actively pursuing the development of a major port and bunkering service in the Gaadhoo, Laamu Atoll, a key pledge in the administration's manifesto to boost economic activity across the archipelago, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, Mohamed Saeed has confirmed.
Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office on 14 April, Minister Saeed revealed that discussions with interested private parties are currently underway to bring the project to fruition, emphasising that the establishment of the facility is a top priority.
“Discussions are underway with interested parties to establish a port and bunkering service in the Gaadhoo area. The government's aim is to provide all the necessary facilities to carry out the project,” he said.
He highlighted that the overall development of regional ports is now progressing at a rapid pace, marking a significant shift from historically centralised development.
The Minister pointed to the ongoing Kulhudhuffushi Port Development Project as evidence of this accelerated regional drive. There, dredging work is in progress to allow the port to accommodate larger vessels, alongside land reclamation initiatives to expand its operational space. He noted that the site has already been developed into a duty-free zone with ample storage for construction materials, with new proposals for further enhancements currently under preliminary review.
Further underscoring the nationwide port modernisation strategy, Minister Saeed detailed concurrent development work in Addu City. The capacity of the Hithadhoo commercial port is being expanded with new services added, and logistical arrangements are being made to enable shipping containers to be delivered directly to the southernmost atoll, significantly improving efficiency and reducing costs for businesses and consumers.