The Maldives is set to officially launch bunkering services on September 19th, marking a significant step in expanding the country’s maritime industry. This announcement was made by Mohamed Wajeeh, the CEO of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), during a TV program aired by state media PSM.
Wajeeh noted that this initiative aligns with the vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who upon taking office, announced plans to revolutionize the maritime sector across the northern, southern, and central parts of the country. The launch of bunkering services is part of the broader strategy to strengthen the Maldives’ maritime infrastructure.
As part of preparations, MPL has introduced a dedicated website (ums.mv) that offers comprehensive information on the bunkering services and other maritime developments. This step is aimed at promoting transparency and global accessibility to the new services being offered by the Maldives.
Two vessels, which will supply fuel to ships, have already arrived in Kulhudhuffushi, a key location for the new services. Additionally, the necessary administrative framework, including the establishment of the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) gate, has been completed. Personnel from the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), Immigration, Customs, and Port Health will be stationed to oversee operations.
In March, a significant agreement was signed between the State Trading Organization (STO) and Vitol Group, one of the world’s leading energy companies, to facilitate these services. Vitol, which supplies 12 million tonnes of bunker fuel annually, will play a pivotal role in the Maldives’ new offshore bunkering operations. The collaboration with such a major international player underscores the country’s ambitions in the maritime fuel supply sector.
“Marine Angel”, one of the vessels to be used for bunkering services.
Bunkering, the process of refueling ships at sea, is expected to become a profitable venture for the Maldives due to its strategic location near major shipping channels. The country’s calm seas and shallow waters offer an ideal environment for ships of various sizes to refuel, potentially boosting state revenue and generating employment opportunities.
In anticipation of the official launch, a new office building for bunkering operations will be inaugurated in Uligan, Haa Alif Atoll. Further expansion plans, including land reclamation for more comprehensive bunkering services, are also underway, with hopes of solidifying the Maldives as a key player in the international maritime industry.
The introduction of bunkering services is expected to provide a considerable economic boost, attracting ships to refuel in the Maldives while positioning the country as a significant hub in the global maritime network.
