Maldives Ministry of Tourism and Environment Takes Action to Control HFC Imports

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment in the Maldives has announced measures to control the import of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a type of gas commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems. This action is part of the Maldives' commitment to the international treaty, the "Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer," which includes the "Kigali Amendment." The amendment aims to reduce the use of HFCs, which contribute to global warming, by gradually phasing out their use in participating countries.

According to the Kigali Amendment, developed countries began efforts to reduce HFCs in 2019, while developing nations, including the Maldives, must begin implementing reductions between 2024 and 2028. In line with this, the Maldives will start limiting the import of HFCs from January 2024. The allowable limit for HFC imports will be based on the country’s average consumption between 2020 and 2022 and 65% of the baseline for HCFCs, taking into account the gases' Global Warming Potential (GWP).

The Maldives' reduction target for HFCs is set at 433,063.819 CO2 equivalent (CO2eq), which represents the maximum amount of HFCs that can be imported during the year 2025. The Ministry has stated that they will continue to grant permits for HFC imports until this amount is reached. Additionally, the Ministry clarified that any import request exceeding the prescribed CO2eq limit will not be approved, and all applications must be submitted through the Makudi Portal before placing a shipment order.

This step marks the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to address climate change and protect the ozone layer while adhering to international environmental agreements.