Gov’t Advances Bunkering Services with Second Vessel Arrival

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has taken a significant step towards launching bunkering services in the northern region of the country with the arrival of the second vessel required for the operation. 

The vessel has docked at Kulhudhuffushi Island in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, marking an important milestone in the company’s efforts to provide offshore fuel supply services.

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MPL’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Wajeeh, announced that the two bunkering vessels, alongside a tugboat and pilot boats, are now stationed in Ihavandhippolhu as preparations near completion. “The International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) Gate has been installed, and all necessary measures have been taken to initiate the service,” Wajeeh stated in a Facebook post.

While the State Trading Organisation (STO) and MPL had initially planned to commence services yesterday, adverse weather conditions caused delays in the arrival of the vessel, resulting in a postponement.

The Maldives Economic Gateway International Bunkering Facility is a collaborative project between STO and the Netherlands-based Vitol, with an agreement signed on 13th March. Once operational, the service will offer international customers 14 additional maritime services, which Wajeeh noted would create further revenue opportunities for both public and private entities.

MPL has also launched a dedicated website, ums.mv, to provide detailed information for potential users of the maritime services offered at the facility.

Looking ahead, Wajeeh indicated that the second phase of the project would include the construction of an oil terminal and storage tanks in the area.

According to government sources, over 300 ships pass through the Ihavandhippolhu region daily, highlighting the strategic importance of the new bunkering services.