Maldives Looks to Pakistan for Rock Supplies as Coastal Protection Projects Face Shortages

The Maldives is arranging to import rock from Pakistan after supplies from India halted and shipments from the United Arab Emirates became difficult, a minister said at the Ahaa public forum.

Responding to a question from the public, the minister said the supply problems were making it harder to obtain rock for island coastal protection projects aimed at reducing the impact of climate change.

The minister attributed the halt in supplies from India to an export restriction imposed by the Tamil Nadu state government. Maldivian authorities had expected the restriction to expire at the end of October, allowing shipments to resume, but it was extended for another two months, the minister said.

The UAE, which the minister described as the Maldives’ largest supplier of rock, has also become harder to source from. The minister cited disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which vessels must cross when departing from the main port used to load the rock.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu raised the possibility of importing rock from Pakistan during his state visit. The minister said arrangements were being made with Pakistan following those talks.

During the visit, the two countries also agreed to work towards increasing bilateral trade to USD 200 million and establishing air and maritime links between Karachi and the Maldives.