The internationally renowned shipping company Evergreen Line has launched its services in the Maldives. The company's services will be provided in the country through the national shipping company, Maldives State Shipping (MSS).
A ceremony to mark the introduction and official launch of Evergreen Line's services in the Maldives was attended by the State Minister for Economic Development, Transport and Trade, Abdul Latheef. The event, held at Hotel Jen in Male', officially inaugurated the company's operations in the country. Also in attendance were Maldives State Shipping Managing Director Ahmed Shareef, senior officials of the company, and State Trading Organisation (STO) Managing Director Shimad Ibrahim, representing MSS's parent company.
Addressing the ceremony, State Minister Abdul Latheef said the partnership would help strengthen the Maldivian economy. He noted that, with more than 90,000 categories of goods being imported into the country, the shipping industry plays a vital role in supporting the national economy.
"By combining MSS's experience with Evergreen's extensive global network, we are working to resolve international logistics challenges in the transportation of cargo," the minister said.
He added that the biggest challenge currently facing the industry is congestion at the Male' Commercial Harbour. However, he said the Government's ongoing efforts to relocate the commercial port would have a positive impact on the entire shipping sector once the project is completed.
Maldives State Shipping signed the agreement to provide Evergreen's services with the company's Sri Lanka office. Speaking about the partnership, MSS Managing Director Ahmed Shareef said the agreement would directly benefit Maldivian businesses.
He noted that Evergreen operates cargo services to destinations around the world, giving local importers and exporters greater access to global shipping networks.
"Evergreen is one of the world's leading shipping companies and among the largest cargo carriers globally. This partnership will benefit Maldivian businesses. We signed the agreement with Evergreen's Sri Lanka office, but it will provide easier access to cargo services from all regions. In particular, it will significantly improve the shipment of goods from China to the Maldives. We are now their partner, making it easier for Maldivian businesses to import goods from those markets," Shareef said.
Following the partnership, Maldives State Shipping has also been listed on Evergreen Line's official website as the company's representative in the Maldives.
Evergreen Sri Lanka Vice President Anuradha Fernando said the company had carried out extensive research before selecting a partner in the Maldives that met Evergreen's standards. He added that, after beginning operations with MSS, the company is confident it has found a strong and reliable partner.
Maldives State Shipping said that forming partnerships with some of the world's most prominent shipping companies is a significant achievement for the company. In addition to Evergreen, MSS currently works with Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk, and said it would continue exploring partnerships with other leading global shipping companies in the future.