MPL Cuts Office Hours, Postpones Maritime Conference Amid Economic Pressures

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has reduced office hours, postponed the Maldives Maritime Conference 2026, and introduced other cost-saving measures to support government efforts to mitigate economic risks arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The company said the Maldives Maritime Conference 2026, initially scheduled for 15 April, has been postponed to 5 October.

From 7 April, administrative staff not working on shifts will operate from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm, reduced from the previous 7:30 am to 3:30 pm schedule. Operational shift employees will work no more than eight hours per day.

MPL has also suspended all overseas travel except for essential trips and will limit expenses even for travel funded by external parties. Meetings with international clients and suppliers will be conducted online, while overseas training programmes have been temporarily halted in favour of virtual participation.

The company said it is also implementing measures to reduce electricity consumption, including initiatives to encourage energy-saving practices among staff.

Despite the cost-cutting measures, MPL assured that there will be no changes to cargo handling operations at the Malé Commercial Harbour, with unloading and clearance services continuing as usual.