Maldives to Launch Agricultural Economic Zone in 2026, Aiming to Reduce Food Imports

The Maldives is set to begin work on its Agricultural Economic Zone in early 2026, a project aimed at enhancing the nation's food security and reducing dependence on imported food. The initiative follows an agreement signed in March 2024 between MIDFZ and China Harbor Engineering Company Limited (CHECL. The zone will involve the reclamation of 100 hectares of land to create the necessary infrastructure.

Managing Director of the State Trading Organisation (STO) and MIDFZ, Shimad Ibrahim, explained that land reclamation was chosen to ensure a large, continuous area for the project. “Smaller islands couldn’t provide the space needed for the project to be effective,” he stated. The zone will also feature a training centre and accommodation facilities for workers.

The Agricultural Economic Zone will focus on growing a variety of vegetables, fruits, and producing poultry and eggs. The project aims to address a significant portion of the country's food needs and reduce the reliance on imports, ultimately lowering consumer prices.

In addition to agricultural activities, the development will include essential infrastructure such as passenger and freight terminals, an agricultural industrial park, and other necessary facilities. These additions will support the project’s long-term success and help stimulate further economic growth.

Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed emphasized the project's potential to cultivate around 80% of the most commonly consumed vegetables and fruits in the Maldives. Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Aishath Rameela also noted that the government has identified the key crops for the zone, highlighting the reduction in food imports once the project is completed.

The project is expected to revitalize the Maldivian agricultural sector by attracting investors, boosting local production, and diversifying the range of food products available in the market. With reduced import dependency, the zone will help save foreign currency and contribute to the country’s overall economic resilience.