State Trading Organisation (STO) has expressed confidence that there will be no shortage of food items available during the month of Ramadan.
Speaking to PSM News, Managing Director Shimad Ibrahim said that ensuring food security is one the most important prioritites of the company. He said that ensuing food security involves the establishment of enough warehouses in the Maldives to provide an uninterrupted supply of goods to the atolls. As such, he said arrangements have been made through its subsidiary, Maldives State Shipping (MSS), to guarantee the continuous supply of goods.
Additionally, Shimad said STO has begun preparations to ensure the continuous supply of onions, eggs, garlic and other staple food items during the month of Ramadan. He noted the issues in supplying some items such as lemons and coconuts during Ramadan last year. However, he expressed confidence that STO will not face such issues during this year's fasting month, as the company is working to establish a mechanism to bring in goods without supply chain interruptions.
Furthermore, Shimad said that STO aims to import and deliver goods to businesses and the public quickly and efficiently in collaboration with MPL. He also said STO is continuously evaluating which countries have high quality goods at fair prices and implementing measures to maintain prices in the Maldives.