Cargo Ferry Service Planned Between the Maldives And Sri Lanka
Photo: The President’s Office
Media reports indicate that a cargo ferry service is expected to be established between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
According to a Sri Lankan news outlet, discussions on the proposed service began during Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s official visit to the Maldives last July. The report also suggested that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s planned visit to Sri Lanka next month could result in further progress on the initiative.
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The Sri Lankan government reportedly aims to use the ferry service to facilitate the transport of goods such as fruits and vegetables required for the Maldives’ tourism sector. Officials believe that the service would help reduce shipping costs and enable faster delivery of perishable items.
However, reports noted that challenges remain in launching the service, including the 30-hour sea transport time between the two countries and competition from established shipping companies already operating on the route.
The Maldivian government has not yet issued any comment on the matter.
A similar cargo ferry service between the Maldives and Cochin, India, was launched in 2020 under the previous administration but ceased operations in 2022.
