Thilafushi Commercial Port to Remain 100 Percent State-Owned Asset

The Maldives' upcoming international commercial port on Thilafushi will be a fully state-owned asset, ensuring that one of the nation's most valuable economic infrastructures remains under the ownership of the Maldivian people. Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed made the assertion in a social media post on Sunday, explicitly dismissing online rumors suggesting otherwise. The Minister provided full assurance that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is committed to developing the facility as a vital state holding, marking it as the largest initiative launched and completed during the current administration's first term. “The international commercial port being established in Thilafushi is 100% owned by the Maldivian people,” Minister Saeed stated, urging citizens to reject false reports. He described the project as a landmark development for the country and cautioned against the spread of misinformation regarding the site's ownership. The relocation of the main commercial port from the congested capital, Malé, to Thilafushi is a cornerstone of President Muizzu’s economic agenda. The move aims to resolve chronic space constraints at the existing terminal and create a scalable foundation for the broader national economy. Government officials have envisioned the facility as a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose hub that adheres to international standards and utilizes modern logistics technology. The comprehensive development plan includes the construction of a dedicated container terminal, multi-purpose terminals, and bonded warehouses. Additionally, the project will feature cold storage units designed to preserve perishable cargo, reducing waste and improving food security. To ensure seamless trade, the government intends to establish a robust 24-hour logistics network surrounding the port. The administration has set a target date of November 11, 2027, to officially launch commercial services, promising a significant upgrade to the Maldives' maritime capabilities and economic autonomy.