Maldive Gas Caps Cooking Gas Supply Amid Global Shortages

Maldive Gas, the state company responsible for importing gas into the Maldives, has capped the quantity of cooking gas it distributes.

The decision follows disruptions to energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, caused by the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, which has resulted in shortages of cooking gas and fuel worldwide.

Maldive Gas, a subsidiary of the State Trading Organisation (STO), has suspended the sale of 10-kilo cooking gas cylinders, refilling only five kilos even in 10-kilo containers. It is revealed that five kilos of cooking gas are currently being sold for MVR 100.

The company routinely implements supply controls in response to global gas shortages. Similar measures were taken ahead of Ramadan last year when a shipment delay temporarily limited supplies, before normal distribution resumed.

The recent cap comes after senior government officials, including President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, assured the public that the conflict in the Middle East would not lead to shortages of fuel, gas, food staples, or other essential commodities in the Maldives.