Agro National Corporation Limited (AgroNat) has stated it will open distribution centres in nine regions of the Maldives in March.
The development of distribution centres is a project to provide fresh produce to customers. Each distribution centre will have a cold storage facility, a dry store facility and an office. AgroNat stated that the cold storages will mainly distribute the produce of farmers in the area.
Speaking to PSM News, Managing Director of AgroNat Haroon Rasheed said that nine distribution centres are preparing to be opened. He said the centres will provide many services to customers.
The distribution centres will also be powered by solar energy. The centres will be set up in Manadhoo in Noonu Atoll, Kinolhas in Raa Atoll, Magoodhoo in Faafu Atoll, Gan, Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo in Laamu Atoll , Nilandhoo in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Hulhumeedhoo in Addu City.
In addition to developing distribution centres, AgroNat is building boats to transport fresh produce from farmers. The design for the boats have been unveiled. Agronet is building two 65ft fibreglass vessels.
AgroNat was established by the government in 2020 to market agricultural produce from local farms and provide a better income for farmers by providing technical and financial assistance and helping them market their produce. The company has established contracts with farmers to produce 17 different types of fruits and vegetables.