President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has made a commitment to achieving complete food security in the Maldives within five years, vowing that all locally producible food items will be produced domestically.
Speaking at a political gathering organised by the People's National Congress (PNC), President Dr. Muizzu emphasised the need to end the reliance on foreign nations for tasks that the Maldivian citizens can undertake themselves. He stressed that reducing such dependencies would foster a sense of national independence. He, however, also acknowledged the importance of seeking foreign assistance when necessary while advocating for self-reliance in areas within the capabilities of the nation.
Additionally, President Dr. Muizzu highlighted the significant financial resources spent on importing food items that could be domestically sourced, underscoring the imperative to halt such imports to bolster the country's economy. Asserting that strides have already been made towards meeting the country's food needs, he assured that food security would be fulfilled during his tenure. As such, he disclosed plans for the establishment of an agricultural industrial zone in Uthuru Thila Falhu, earmarked for the purpose.
Furthermore, President Dr. Muizzu outlined the economic benefits of reducing reliance on food imports, predicting a positive impact on the national economy. He outlined a phased approach, with the initial focus on meeting domestic food requirements before expanding to cater to the tourism sector. He said that it would lay a foundation for the nation's future prosperity. In addition, he anticipated that the efforts would generate employment opportunities and enhance the well-being of many citizens.
In line with the objectives, the Maldives Industrial Development Freezone Company (MIDFZ) has entered into an agreement with China Harbor Engineering Company Limited to establish an agricultural economic zone aimed at strengthening food security in the Maldives.