The Maldives is set to see a significant boost in its agricultural sector with the development of a 200-hectare Agriculture Economic Zone (AEZ) in Uthuru Thilafalhu, scheduled to commence operations in January 2025. This project aims to reduce the nation’s dependence on food imports while ensuring food security and providing healthier food options.
Agriculture Minister Dr. Aishath Ramila announced the timeline for the project during an interview with PSM, stating that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for land reclamation is currently underway. The AEZ, considered one of the government’s most promising initiatives, will be developed in two phases.
The first phase will focus on establishing greenhouses across 100 hectares of land. These greenhouses will be used to grow various crops that are currently imported into the Maldives. The second phase will involve the cultivation of underground crops, such as onions and garlic, across the remaining 100 hectares. Additionally, a poultry farm will be developed to reduce the importation of chicken eggs.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has previously emphasized the importance of this mega agricultural project, highlighting its role in reducing food imports and ensuring food security. The government aims to provide affordable and high-quality food to the people of the Maldives through this initiative.
The project will be developed and operated by a Chinese company, with whom the Ministry of Agriculture has already held discussions to secure funding. The Maldives Industrial Development Free Zone (MID), under the State Trading Organization (STO), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Harbor Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) to establish the AEZ. CHEC, known for constructing the Sinamalé Bridge, will be responsible for reclaiming land from Uthuru Thilafalhu for sustainable agricultural purposes.
This agreement follows President Muizzu’s official visit to China, where he signed agreements with the Chinese government, paving the way for this crucial agricultural development in the Maldives.
The AEZ is expected to transform the agricultural landscape of the Maldives, providing a steady supply of locally grown produce and reducing the country’s reliance on imported food. As the project progresses, the Maldives moves closer to achieving its goal of food security and self-sufficiency.