The fifth iteration of the annual 'Maldives Marine Expo' kicked off in capital Male City on Wednesday.
The three-day expo, organised by National Boating Association, was inaugurated by Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail at Dharubaaruge convention centre. He was accompanied by State Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Ahmed Adil.
The expo is a platform to showcase marine vessels from various local builders and companies to international audiences. It provides opportunities for boatbuilders, suppliers and other marine service entities to network with major corporations and businesses.
This year's expo features 52 stalls with 30 participants.
Regarding the expo, Boating Association's Vice President Ismail Hameed stated that the biggest challenge for such events in Maldives is lack of adequate space.
"The boating industry would wish to display their vessels and equipments at an ideal location. The greatest challenge is that we don't have an adequate event venue to showcase such equipment except Dharubaaruge", he said.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Minister Fayyaz Ismail touched upon the current administration's vow to develop a harbour for the top safaris in the liveaboard industry. He stated that the harbour development was delayed due to the lack of a suitable lagoon in the capital area for such a project.
"...but we hope to choose a lagoon and commence the planning stage for the harbour over the next month", he assured.
In addition to Dharubaaruge, the Marine Expo is showcasing state-of-the-art vessels at the Fishermen's Park as well. The display at the park was also inaugurated by the economic minister.
Boating Association organised the expo in collaboration with Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Economic Development, Ministry of Communication, Science and Technology, and Male' City Council.
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