Government to Establish Affordable Storage Facilities for SMEs Across Maldives

The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has announced plans to establish affordable warehousing storage facilities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in three regions of the Maldives. This initiative is part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to provide special support to SMEs over the next two years. The decision comes after SME owners raised concerns about the lack of affordable storage space during a meeting with the President on 17 December. To address this issue, storage facilities will be established in Male’, Addu City, and Kulhudhuffushi City. Further details will be announced soon. The Ministry is also working to expedite cargo clearance at ports operated by Maldives Ports Limited and improve the management of cargo vessels. Other measures include extending the demurrage-free period for imported goods from 80 hours to 124 hours and increasing cargo clearance service hours from 18 to 24 hours.