Maldives engages new markets for medicines, essential goods
Countries under engagement include India, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has stated that the government is in discussions with several countries to diversify the import of medicines and essential goods to the Maldives.
He made the remarks on Sunday at a press conference held by a cabinet committee formed by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to address potential supply chain disruptions linked to developments in the Middle East.
The minister said the government is assessing global markets to identify alternative sources for essential commodities and to expand imports from existing trade partners.
Countries under engagement include India, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.
“The government is in discussions with markets where trade links are limited, with the aim of establishing these relationships,” Saeed said.
He added that these efforts are expected to lead to new bilateral trade arrangements.
Referring to Indonesia, the minister said the country currently supplies furniture, fittings and construction materials, but there is scope to expand imports to other categories.
Saeed said the government is working with foreign administrations to ensure the supply of essential goods through sea and air transport.
He noted that new supply routes are being explored as part of these efforts.
The minister also referred to the 2016 Economic Cooperation Agreement with Thailand, stating that imports under the agreement have so far been limited and could be expanded.
He added that there is potential to increase trade with Thailand and Malaysia in relation to essential goods.
The government has expanded the list of essential commodities to 26 items.
Saeed said measures under consideration include signing agreements to facilitate procurement and working with the Ministry of Transport to establish air links where required.
“In cases where direct routes are not available, we are identifying connecting routes to transport these goods,” he said.
He added that the objective is to maintain stock levels in line with national demand.
