Maldives Secures Alternative Suppliers to Safeguard Construction Imports

Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, said the Maldives has identified four alternative suppliers to ensure the continued import of construction materials is not disrupted amid the ongoing conflict.

Speaking at a press conference by the government’s crisis committee addressing the conflict in the Middle East, Saeed said the construction sector has been among the industries affected, particularly due to recent difficulties in importing cement.

He said imports have since resumed from the existing supplier, while contingency measures are now in place.

“However, in the event that a similar situation arises, we have identified four other suppliers that will provide cement to us,” he said.

Saeed noted that the development was made possible through coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and engagement with partner countries.

He also cautioned that global market fluctuations remain beyond the Maldives’ control, particularly in relation to pricing.

“Just to caution you, the changes occurring in the international market—the price fluctuations in the global market—are not something the Maldives can control. However, regarding the passing on of a significant price hike to the end-user, if the government believes, for example, that it might disrupt any industry, and if it is deemed that such a disruption to that industry could result in a negative impact on the overall economy of the Maldives, the President will look into that matter,” he said.

Saeed added that the government has been in discussions with the Maldives Association of Construction Industry (MACI) and other stakeholders, stating that decisions will prioritise solutions that benefit the country as a whole.