Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, has said that more than 2,500 containers currently held up in Sri Lanka will be brought to the Maldives next week.
Minister Saeed made these remarks while speaking at a press briefing held at the President’s Office.
He explained that, in response to changes in global shipping routes, Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has been undertaking extensive efforts to ease difficulties in importing goods to the Maldives. As a result of these efforts, the burden on cargo transportation is expected to reduce.
The Minister further noted that due to disruptions in the Middle East, more than 2,500 containers are currently delayed in Sri Lanka, and are expected to be transported to the Maldives next week.
“With the changes brought about by the conflict, the containers currently delayed in Sri Lanka will be shipped to the Maldives next week on three vessels, according to information provided by MPL,” he said.
In addition, Minister Saeed highlighted trade statistics, noting that compared to previous years, imports to the Maldives have increased by between 19 percent and 20 percent so far this year. He also stated that the price index for staple food items rose by 1.95 percent in March compared to the same period last year.
According to the data, among staple food categories, the largest price decreases have been recorded in fruits and vegetables. Vegetable prices have fallen by 5 percent, while fruit prices have declined by 15.56 percent overall compared to last year.