India expands food export quotas to Maldives
This increase represents the largest quota allocation since the inception of the special permit for exporting basic food items to the Maldives in 1981.
Connected to India
In a significant development, the Indian government has granted approval for the export of basic food items to the Maldives for the upcoming year. This decision comes in response to a special request made by the Dhaka government, highlighting the strengthening ties between the two nations.
The Indian High Commission in the Maldives announced today that the quota for the export of essential food items from India to the Maldives has been renewed for the current year, marking a noteworthy increase of 5%. This increase represents the largest quota allocation since the inception of the special permit for exporting basic food items to the Maldives in 1981.
Furthermore, in a move aimed at revitalizing the construction sector in the Maldives, export quotas for stone and gravel have also witnessed a substantial boost. The rock and gravel quota has been amplified to 1 million metric tonnes, reflecting a notable 25% increase. This enhancement is expected to inject fresh momentum into the burgeoning construction industry of the Maldives, aligning with the country's developmental aspirations.
The expanded export quotas encompass a range of essential food commodities including eggs, garlic, onions, basic necessities (comprising flour and sugar), and rice, all of which have seen a 5% increase. Despite the ban on the export of flour, sugar, and onions grown and produced domestically in India last year, India has continued to export these items under a special permit allocated to the Maldives. The Commerce and Industry Ministry of India has underscored its commitment to facilitate these exports, even amidst the domestic ban, emphasizing India's steadfast support for its neighbouring nation.
This significant move underscores India's steadfast commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, prioritizing the welfare and development of its neighbouring countries. The Indian High Commission has reiterated India's unwavering dedication to fostering robust bilateral relations with the Maldives and ensuring mutual prosperity and progress.
Moreover, in addition to the enhanced trade relations with India, the Maldives has also forged agreements with other strategic partners. An agreement has been reached with Turkey for the importation of essential goods, with the first shipment already en route.
