Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM) has established fuel services in eight atolls as part of a nationwide effort to give fishermen and island communities access to fuel at State Trading Organisation (STO) rates.
Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed said fuel skids have so far been established and brought into operation on eight islands, with the government working towards expanding the service across the country.
The initiative follows a pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to establish a mechanism in every atoll through which fishermen and the general public can purchase fuel at STO rates.
Fuel services have so far been established in HA. Ihavandhoo, HDh. Hanimaadhoo, Sh. Milandhoo, R. Dhuvaafaru, B. Eydhafushi, Dh. Meedhoo, Dh. Kudahuvadhoo and F. Nilandhoo.
According to Saeed, work on expanding the network is progressing rapidly, with the government aiming to make the service available across all atolls and cities before November 2027.
The programme is intended to address differences in fuel prices between the capital and the atolls. Fuel supplies in many islands are handled by private operators, where additional transportation and distribution costs can result in customers paying more than standard STO rates.
For fishing communities in particular, fuel represents a major operating expense, while residents and businesses in some islands have also had to travel considerable distances to obtain supplies.
Saeed said establishing FSM fuel facilities closer to communities would reduce these journeys and help lower energy-related expenses for fishermen, industrial workers and the wider public.
The minister described the progress as part of the government’s efforts to address longstanding difficulties faced by island communities and improve access to essential services outside the Greater Malé region.
The wider fuel skid programme was launched in November 2024, initially targeting the establishment of facilities on 18 islands across the Maldives.
Eight of those locations are now providing services, while work is continuing on additional facilities. More islands are expected to begin offering the service before the end of this year as the government works towards nationwide coverage.
