Maldives Seeks India’s Support Amid Rising Global Fuel Prices

The Maldivian government has requested assistance from India to secure oil supplies as global fuel markets face disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Fuel prices have risen in more than 85 countries since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on 28 February, according to Global Petrol Prices. The Maldives is among the ten countries experiencing the sharpest increases.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Maldives had approached New Delhi for support in importing oil. Requests from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are also under review. Decisions will take into account India’s refining capacity, domestic needs, and diesel availability.

The conflict has placed significant strain on Asian economies, particularly due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for regional oil and gas imports. Economists note that rising fuel costs generally lead to higher food prices as transportation costs increase, and major oil shocks have historically been followed by global economic slowdowns.

The request to India follows statements by Maldives’ Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, who assured that the country would not face shortages of oil, gas, or staple foods. He noted that the Maldives’ fuel sector is managed with anticipation of such disruptions and that market movements are being closely monitored.