Ministry Reports 2,000 Special Permits Issued For Plant Imports Into Maldives

The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has confirmed that 2,000 individuals have so far been granted special permission to import plants, shrubs, and plant products into the Maldives, reflecting the country’s strict regulatory framework governing plant imports.

All plant-related imports require a special permit issued by the Ministry, which can be applied for through the online ‘Makudi’ portal. The Ministry stated that these measures form an essential part of national efforts to safeguard biosecurity.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

As part of targeted actions to prevent the spread of pests, the Ministry has also authorised the controlled movement of plants and plant products between islands. A total of 28 permits have been issued specifically for islands declared free of the Hispid beetle, underscoring the importance placed on protecting local ecosystems from invasive species.

The Ministry highlighted wider commercial activity within the sector. Three companies have been approved to export palm trees, while another three companies have received permission to import trees and tree products on a commercial scale. In addition, 1,057 companies have been authorised to import agricultural chemicals and pesticides used in farming.

Official figures show a substantial volume of plant material entering the country. Between January and April this year, 3,869,648 plants, shrubs, and plant products were imported across 405 shipments.

To strengthen national biosecurity, the Ministry reiterated that all plant exports from the Maldives require a phyto-sanitary certificate. All imports of herbs, plants, plant products, and other regulated materials must also be accompanied by a phyto-sanitary certificate issued by the National Plant Protection Organisation of the exporting country, in full compliance with the Plant Protection Act.