Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has convened a stakeholder‑focused meeting to gather input from clearing agents and cargo truck drivers ahead of the relocation of the Male’ Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi.
The session, part of an ongoing series of consultations, aimed to identify the specific needs and feedback of two groups MPL described as crucial in the port’s daily operations. Participants highlighted the importance of streamlined customs clearance, adequate staging areas for trucks, and real‑time information sharing to minimise turn‑around times.
MPL said the goal is to shape the Thilafushi port so that work is as convenient and efficient as possible for clearing agents and truck drivers, adding that their insights are vital to designing a system that moves goods quickly and reliably.
The relocation of the Male’ Commercial Harbour forms a cornerstone of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s economic agenda, addressing chronic space constraints at the existing facility while seeking to broaden the nation’s trade capacity.
The new Thilafushi port is slated to become a state‑of‑the‑art, multi‑purpose hub, featuring a modern container terminal, versatile berths, cold‑storage units for perishable cargo, bonded warehouses, and a 24‑hour logistics network built to international standards.
MPL has also held discussions with government ministries, business owners, shipping agents, and freight forwarders. The government has set an official launch date for the port’s services on 11 November 2026.