The Maldivian government has refuted allegations that it favoured a Chinese contractor over Indian counterparts to develop the new international commercial port at Thilafushi.
Responding to media reports that awarding the relocation of the Malé Commercial Harbour to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) represented a strategic shift away from India, the Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade clarified in an official statement that the decision was made strictly in compliance with transparent and legal procurement procedures.
The project stems from a major government initiative launched earlier this year to relocate the Malé Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi, under which China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) was contracted to build both the international and domestic berthing facilities. According to the Ministry, the selection was guided strictly by the nation’s long-term economic and infrastructure requirements, rather than geopolitical preferences.
Critical reports in the Indian media state that while President Dr Mohamed Muizzu highlighted the India-assisted Thilamalé Bridge project as a symbol of strong bilateral ties between the two nations, the Thilafushi port development was nevertheless awarded to a Chinese company.
Officials confirmed that the Maldivian government will maintain full state control, ownership, and operation of the Thilafushi Port. The administration stressed that national sovereignty remains non-negotiable and that no foreign entity holds claims over national infrastructure decisions beyond standard legal parameters.
Commenting on the diplomatic context, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed emphasised that the project reflects domestic priorities rather than a shift in foreign relations:
“The Thilafushi port serves the Maldivian people and the nation’s long-term prosperity. It was awarded through the Government’s established processes, and it should not be read as a statement about any of our partners, each of whom the Maldives continues to value.”
The primary objective of this project, aimed at finding a permanent solution to the severe congestion at the Malé Commercial Harbour, is to expand port capacity alongside the rapid growth of the nation’s maritime and logistics sector, while significantly accelerating cargo handling operations, Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) stated.
The government reiterated its commitment to a “Maldives-First” foreign policy, maintaining that it will continue constructive engagement with all international partners while safeguarding national sovereignty and public interest.advertisement
advertisement
PRESS RELEASE: Statement on Media Coverage of the Thilafushi Port Development Project
🔗 https://t.co/PAnZFByDV5 pic.twitter.com/UAWCLxBUow— Ministry of Economic Development,Transport & Trade (@MoEDmv) September 9, 2026
