In a decisive step to strengthen national food security, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced a landmark policy that expands the State Trading Organization’s (STO) role in ensuring affordable access to essential food items.
Speaking after consultations with his Cabinet, President Muizzu confirmed that the government will go beyond the traditional staples of rice, sugar, and flour to include a wider range of essential imports. Under this new policy, STO will begin large-scale import and distribution of the ten most consumed fruits, ten key varieties of vegetables, as well as beans, eggs, and potatoes.
The initiative, a key pledge in President Muizzu’s manifesto, directly addresses the rising costs of food in the Maldives by placing the government at the forefront of stabilizing supply and price. With STO’s nationwide distribution network, the policy is expected to bring immediate relief to households and businesses alike, ensuring quality produce at fair market rates.
Food security has long been a critical concern for the Maldives, a country heavily reliant on imports due to limited agricultural capacity. By diversifying and broadening the scope of essential imports, the government aims to reduce dependence on fluctuating private markets and safeguard Maldivians against sudden price shocks.
President Muizzu emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader vision to make the Maldives self-reliant and resilient. The move is widely seen as a bold and people-first policy shift, aligning national resources with the everyday needs of citizens while ensuring stability in the food supply chain.
With this new measure, the administration has once again demonstrated its commitment to delivering on promises, putting the welfare of Maldivians at the heart of governance, and paving the way for a more secure and affordable future.
