Maldives State Shipping (MSS) has stated that scheduling chartered vessels between Addu City and Tuticorin, India, will depend on demand for the service.
Managing Director Abdulla Saeed said a cargo ship named Bonthi II previously travelled between Addu and Tuticorin but that the vessel was discontinued after it had shown signs of wear and tear in its survey equipment. He said the management has decided to no longer use the ship as it is already 40 years old and that services to Addu have been put on hold. He added that the company is working to find a replacement but that demand for the service is low.
Furthermore, Saeed said its new bulk carrier MSS Chrome is expected to arrive from the UAE with a full cargo later in the month. MSS purchased the new bulk carrier last month for the import of construction materials. The national flag was flown on the vessel for the first time on May 5, making it the largest vessel ever registered under the Maldivian flag.
Additionally, the company bought its first vessel MSS Galena last year. The ship has the capacity to carry 780 containers, a 60-tonne crane, and 60 barrels. MSS is also bringing in a new container ship named MSS Graphene to meet the demand for shipping services. Prior to the purchase of its own vessels, MSS had been importing cargo on chartered vessels.
MSS is a shipping and logistics company owned by State Trading Organisation (STO), offering an extensive international liner shipping service. MSS began its services in 2020 to reduce the price of goods imported into the country. The company has stated it is working to expand its fleet as well as develop its human resources by providing more employment and career opportunities.