The State Trading Organization (STO) has reaffirmed that onion supplies remain stable and available at its outlets for MVR 13 per kilogram, even as prices charged by some private vendors have surged to between MVR 40 and MVR 45 per kilogram.
In a statement, State Trading Organization said it continues to maintain adequate onion stocks and has not increased its retail price. The company also confirmed that wholesale distribution will begin next week and that additional efforts are underway to ensure regional outlets remain sufficiently stocked.
The clarification follows widespread public concern over soaring onion prices in the private market, where some retailers are reportedly charging more than three times STO’s selling price.
STO’s decision to maintain onions at MVR 13 per kilogram is expected to help ease pressure on consumers and provide relief to households facing rising food costs. The company said it remains committed to ensuring the uninterrupted availability of essential food items across the Maldives.
The significant gap between STO’s price and those seen in parts of the private market has renewed attention on the role of state-backed imports in helping stabilise prices and protect consumers from sudden market fluctuations.
