U.S. Signals Support for Maldives’ Thilafushi Port Development

The United States has expressed support for the development of the Thilafushi Port project, describing it as a key initiative with the potential to strengthen the Maldives’ position as a regional logistics and distribution hub for international commerce.

The endorsement came during a visit to the project site by US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, S. Paul Kapur, who is currently visiting the Maldives as part of efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

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Following the visit, Kapur said he had gained a better understanding of the vision behind the project and its role in the country’s economic future.

“Visited the Thilafushi Port project site to understand the vision for a central logistical and distribution hub for international commerce in Maldives. The United States looks forward to working with Maldives on Thilafushi port project and unlocking its potential for long-term economic growth,” Kapur said in a statement.

Visited the Thilafushi Port project site to understand the vision for a central logistical and distribution hub for international commerce in Maldives. The United States looks forward to working with Maldives on Thilafushi port project and unlocking its potential for long-term… pic.twitter.com/Zo4U9X9jRa— Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) (@State_SCA) June 24, 2026

Kapur’s visit to the Maldives included meetings with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and several senior government ministers. Discussions focused on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, investment opportunities and maritime security. The visit also coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and the Maldives.

The Thilafushi Port project forms a central part of the government’s plans to expand the country’s trade and logistics infrastructure. Located near the Greater Malé region, the facility is intended to serve as a modern commercial gateway capable of handling increased cargo volumes, supporting regional distribution networks and attracting private-sector investment.

The government plans to relocate operations from the existing Malé Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi upon completion of the project. President Muizzu has previously announced that the new port will be inaugurated on 11 November 2027, with construction expected to be completed later that year.

The project recently reached a significant milestone when Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) successfully concluded a trial berthing operation at the site. According to MPL, a total of 394 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) were loaded onto the cargo vessel MSS Galena during a 20-hour operation.

Through the coordinated efforts of #TeamMPL, the trial berthing operation at Thilafushi has been successfully concluded.

Over the course of 20 working hours, a total of 394 TEUs were loaded onto the cargo vessel MSS GALENA.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our dedicated… pic.twitter.com/KShjDJBm5K— Maldives Ports Limited (@Portmv) June 3, 2026

China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) was awarded the contract for the design and survey works of the first phase of the commercial port project in February this year. 

The first phase of the project includes the construction of a 650-metre quay wall, a 125-metre road bridge, an X-ray inspection facility, automated cargo-handling facilities and a bonded warehouse. Officials have said the new port will incorporate advanced technologies aimed at improving operational efficiency and strengthening the Maldives’ maritime logistics capabilities.

The development is widely seen as part of broader efforts to diversify the Maldivian economy and strengthen the nation’s role in regional trade and shipping. Support from international partners, including the United States, is expected to contribute to the project’s long-term development and economic potential.