In a recent X post, the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed profound gratitude to the Government of India for its unwavering support in ensuring the supply of essential commodities for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This significant arrangement underscores the enduring partnership and close cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
The Gov of #Maldives conveys its sincere appreciation to the Gov of #India for its continued support in facilitating the supply of essential commodities for 2025-26. This important arrangement reflects the enduring partnership and close cooperation between 🇲🇻 – 🇮🇳 @MEAIndia
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs 🇲🇻 (@MoFAmv) April 3, 2025
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) of India has authorized substantial export quotas to the Maldives, including:
- Eggs: 448.91 million units
- Potatoes: 22,589 metric tons
- Onions: 37,537 metric tons
- Rice: 130,429 metric tons
- Wheat Flour: 114,621 metric tons
- Sugar: 67,719 metric tons
- Dal (Pulses): 350 metric tons
- Stone Aggregate: 1.3 million metric tons
- River Sand: 1.3 million metric tons
These allocations represent the highest quotas approved since the inception of the bilateral trade mechanism in 1981, reflecting India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives’ economic stability and growth. Notably, the export quota for dal has seen a substantial 56% increase, while stone aggregate and river sand quotas have been elevated by 30%. Essential food items such as eggs, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, and wheat flour have each received a 5% boost in their export limits.
This development is part of a series of collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening the bilateral relationship between the Maldives and India. In October 2024, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met to reinforce strategic cooperation, resulting in agreements to expedite infrastructure projects and initiate talks on a free trade agreement.
President Muizzu has consistently highlighted the importance of India’s support, stating that India has always been one of the Maldives’ closest allies and invaluable partners, providing aid whenever needed. This sentiment reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening the historic and close connections between the Maldives and India.
India’s proactive measures, including the approval of these record-breaking export quotas, underscore its role as a reliable ally of the Maldives. These initiatives not only ensure a steady supply of essential commodities but also contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the island nation. As both countries continue to collaborate closely, such initiatives are poised to further solidify their relationship, fostering mutual growth and prosperity in the region.
