Meeting with the Maldives Ports Limited

The Sri Lanka-Maldives Business Council (SLMLBC) delegation met with officials from the Maldives Ports Limited during their visit to Maldives on the 13th of May, 2024. The meeting was attended by key representatives including Mr. Hassan Muzni Mohamed, Chief Commercial Officer; Mr. Ahmed Inaan, Chief Technical Officer; Mr. Hussain Naeem, Port Consultant, CEO Bureau; and other distinguished representatives.

MPL informed the delegation about their plans to address limited space in the Maldives by exploring the relocation of Male ports to Thilafushi island. This initiative includes the construction of a bridge connecting Thilafushi with Male city, which is already in progress. Additionally, there is an investment opportunity for developing port facilities.

The president of SLMLBC discussed the importance of mainliner business and the role of freight forwarders, underscoring their significant contribution. He also requested permission to implement a nominal fee for their services. Furthermore, he raised concerns about certain freight forwarders engaging in unethical practices, stressing the potential threat to the bilateral friendship between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

During the discussions, it was highlighted that there are substantial opportunities for exporting high-quality perishable goods from Sri Lanka to Thilafushi port, Maldives. Additionally, the potential for importing construction materials from Sri Lanka to the Maldives was explored, indicating a promising avenue for enhancing trade between the two nations.