Maldives to Introduce Eco-Friendly Electric Taxis Under New Agreement

The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, has signed an agreement to introduce environmentally friendly electric taxis in the Maldives. 

The initiative, which falls under the government’s broader efforts to promote sustainable urban transport, aims to reduce the environmental impact of road traffic while providing residents with cleaner and more efficient transport options.

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MoU signed between @MoTmv and @MoTCAmv to enhance e-taxi services in Male’ region.

Through this MoU,We will be assisting in providing additional funds to towards the purchase of e-taxi and charging stations. pic.twitter.com/FlxnvoBpM8— Ministry of Tourism and Environment (@MoTmv) February 26, 2025

Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim signed the agreement as part of the Integrated Sustainable and Low Emissions Transport Project, which is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The project is designed to cut emissions, ease road congestion, and introduce eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fuel-powered transport in Male’ City.

As part of the initiative, financial assistance will be provided to support the establishment of electric taxis and charging stations. The Ministry of Transport highlighted that the adoption of electric vehicles will help curb air pollution and noise levels, ultimately contributing to a healthier and safer urban environment. The introduction of these electric taxis represents a shift towards a more sustainable mode of transport, aligning with the government’s long-term vision for a cleaner and greener Maldives.

In a separate move to improve public transport services, the government has also signed an agreement with the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) to introduce a government-owned taxi service. The rollout will take place in three phases, starting this year with operations in Male’, Hulhumale’, and Velana International Airport. The second phase, planned for 2025 to 2027, will expand the service to Villimale and Thilafushi. By 2028, the third phase will see the taxi service extended to Rasmale’, Giraavaru, Addu City, Fuvahmulah City, and Kulhudhuffushi.

Taviyani stated that this decision would affect not only full-time taxi drivers and taxi centres but also others indirectly linked to the industry. This includes part-time drivers and individuals who rent out private cars as a source of secondary income. Related small businesses would also be impacted, he added.

Taviyani stated that the Ministry had previously denied any plans to launch a government taxi service. In its response to a Right to Information (RTI) request submitted by the company, the Ministry had stated that no such initiative was being considered. The RTI response was dated 11 December 2024.