Maldives Plans Major Modernisation of Main Commercial Port to Boost Trade

The Maldives aims to overcome major challenges in its export and import sector by modernising its main commercial port, following the same ambition that transformed Velana International Airport, according to Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed.

The Minister’s comments reflect a central component of the government’s strategy to accelerate economic growth through large-scale infrastructure development.

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Speaking at a ceremony marking a port management training programme conducted in collaboration with UN Trade and Development and Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), Minister Saeed outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the ports sector.

A key feature of the plan is the long-anticipated relocation of the congested Malé Commercial Harbour to the industrial island of Thilafushi. The proposed 60-hectare port development is a USD 250 million project intended to provide a long-term, sustainable solution for the country’s trade and logistics needs.

Minister Saeed highlighted the urgent need for expansion, noting that container handling capacity has increased from 30,000 TEUs in 2000 to 100,000 TEUs today, while the physical size of the port has not kept pace with rapid growth in tourism and the wider economy.

The development plans extend beyond the capital, with smaller satellite ports planned across the country and two major commercial ports to be established in the northern and southern regions to improve nationwide connectivity.

Linking port development to the cost and availability of essential goods, Minister Saeed said that enhancing capacity and efficiency is critical to ensuring basic food items are accessible and fairly distributed, even to the smallest islands. Strengthening the main commercial port, he added, will play a vital role in supporting broader economic resilience and national development.