Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has assured that Maldives currently faces no difficulties in importing necessary food varieties despite the ongoing war in the Middle East.
In a press conference held at the President's Office, Minister Saeed said that the government is working to secure imports of the three basic food staples and 23 other varieties of goods without interruption. He said that even under the current circumstances, discussions on this are being held with other countries.
Saeed said that the 'crisis committee' formed at the start of the war has been doing crucial work to mitigate the impacts of the conflict on Maldives.
"We are bringing some materials from Indonesia, Malaysia and other such sources more than we used to bring. We have an FTA in place with China. We can bring materials and such goods from China," the Minister said.
Saeed said that despite the UAE, where the highest imports to Maldives are from, has been shut down, all types of goods can easily be imported to Maldives from China. The government is also working on further strengthening ties with Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and such nations, exploring additional routes for imports, he added.
The minister said that under the current circumstances, the government is working with sources from which goods weren't previously imported to Maldives. Among these, the Maldives is currently deliberating with nations in Africa as well, he said. The government is exploring avenues of bringing in goods via both sea and air transport.
"This summer, Condor will also start flights. These are advancements we are getting through these efforts. We have signed a similar commercial framework with Thailand as well. We are seeking further means of ease," Saeed said.
Saeed went on to say that even in the current situation, the government is prioritizing diversifying the economy to seek additional ways of increasing revenue. As such, sustainable township efforts are proceeding at speed under SEZ, he said, adding that the land needed for the project has now been reclaimed.
