Economic Ministry Plans Temporary Ramadan Markets to Ensure Fresh Produce Access

The Ministry of Economic Development has initiated discussions on setting up temporary markets in preparation for this year’s Ramadan, aiming to provide consumers with easy access to fresh produce.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Minister of Economic Development Mohamed Saeed announced that local vendors will have exclusive opportunities to set up stalls in these markets, which will be established in Malé City and Hulhumalé Phases 1 and 2. He added that necessary preparations are underway, and relevant authorities will share further details in the coming days.

The ministry is also working with the State Trading Organization (STO) to regulate and maintain prices of fast-moving goods and other essential items during Ramadan. Instead of restricting price inflations, the government’s priority will be ensuring affordable pricing for high-demand items, Saeed stated.

To prevent shortages, the government, in collaboration with STO, will import necessary food items from multiple sources if a single country does not meet demand. If the price of any essential item surges, STO will introduce additional stock into the market to stabilize prices.

STO recently imported coconuts after their prices spiked in the local market and is now prepared to import food supplies under four key categories:

- Basic food items

- Fresh produce

- Processed foods

- Condiments

These measures align with the government’s broader strategy to ensure food security and price stability throughout Ramadan.