The Maldives Customs Service has begun offering round-the-clock air cargo clearance, following repeated concerns from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) about lengthy delays caused by limited operating hours.
The decision was finalised after business owners raised the issue directly with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during a recent consultation meeting. Traders noted that restricted working hours often resulted in clearance processes stretching up to 18 hours, disrupting supply chains and increasing operational costs.
Responding to these concerns, Customs confirmed that all air-cargo-related clearance services will now operate 24 hours a day. Officials said the change is intended to speed up processing times, reduce backlogs, and improve overall efficiency for importers.
At the meeting, President Muizzu also addressed mounting frustrations over demurrage charges—fees imposed on cargo that remains uncleared beyond the permitted timeframe. He announced that the current demurrage-free window of 80 hours will be extended to 124 hours, reducing the financial pressure on traders who previously incurred substantial penalties due to procedural delays.
The President reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to resolving bottlenecks at both air and sea entry points, emphasising that improving trade facilitation and supporting SMEs remain key priorities of the administration.
Authorities expect the newly introduced 24/7 service to significantly streamline cargo handling operations and boost the ease of doing business across the country.
