The Managing Director of the State Trading Organisation (STO) Shimadh Ibrahim Mohamed has assured the public of regular monitoring of food prices, especially those commonly used for consumption during the Holy month of Ramadan.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has noted the commitment to ensure that commonly consumed items are priced lower and more affordable during Ramadan, with STO being the primary company working towards this goal in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade. The ministry has formulated a list of basic food essentials, and in partnership with STO, is working to ensure the availability of these items while monitoring, regulating, and controlling their prices.
In an interview at PSM News, Shimadh Ibrahim emphasised STO's readiness for the month of Ramadan. He highlighted STO's efforts to facilitate easy access to essential food commodities for the Maldives, particularly in the face of global challenges in sourcing onions in December.
Although STO does not typically import onions, eggs, and potatoes, Shimadh Ibrahim noted that the company would assess import barriers if there is a significant surge in demand. He confirmed that STO is actively working to import these commodities and has already imported lemons to lower their prices in preparation for Ramadan.