President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced the national shipping line, Maldives State Shipping (MSS) is set to commence international cargo operations to Addu City and Thinadhoo in South Huvadhu Atoll. The president made the announcement while speaking at the ceremony held to officially inaugurate Hoarafushi Airport.
Speaking at the ceremony, the president revealed MSS will begin cargo operations from Tuticorin port in India to Addu City and Thinadhoo within the next two weeks. The president noted cargo such as food and construction materials will be carried during the operations.
MSS, which is operated as a subsidiary company of State Trading Organisation (STO), will be using a 3,700 metric-tonne cargo ship for the operations. The government revealed a round voyage between Tuticorin, Addu and Thinadhoo will be completed every 20 days. The government stated 4 special frozen containers will be used to store perishable food items which are carried during the operations.
A shipping charge of USD 50 will be imposed on items carried in frozen containers, while items in other containers will have a shipping charge between USD 30 and USD 40. These rates are cheaper than the rates charged by Male’ Commercial Harbour.
Introduction of direct cargo operations to Addu and Huvadhu Atoll will bring many benefits to businesses in the two regions. As such, the operations will help to reduce freight and handling charges imposed on items, and increase benefits while also bringing down the selling price of items.
The introduction of the service will also create the opportunity for businesses in the two regions to begin wholesale services to nearby atolls. It will also create more job opportunities in the two regions.
The introduction of international cargo services in Addu and Thinadhoo is part of the government’s policy to decentralise economic activities in the Maldives.