State Trading Organization has rejected reports claiming the company imposed restrictions on rice distribution due to declining stock levels, calling the information circulating online misleading.
The clarification follows a report by Raajje MV Media alleging that reduced STO rice stocks had led to distribution limitations and difficulties in purchasing rice from some retail outlets in Malé.
In response, STO said it currently has sufficient rice stocks available to meet public demand and dismissed claims of any distribution restrictions.
Reliable sources also confirmed that a new rice shipment is currently at Malé Commercial Harbour awaiting clearance procedures.
The company assured the public that rice supplies remain stable and distribution operations are continuing without disruption.
As the Maldives’ main state-owned supplier of staple goods, STO plays a key role in maintaining national food security by importing and distributing essential commodities across the country.
