Duty-free zone launched at Kulhudhuffushi port

A duty-free zone has been introduced at Kulhudhuffushi port, in the northern Maldives, as part of efforts to boost the region’s economy.

President Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated the new services last evening during his tour of Haa Dhaalu atoll.

Maldives Ports Ltd (MPL) said the facilities were launched under an agreement signed with the Ministry of Economic Development on 19 May. They include a bonded area for storing staple foods, commodities and duty-free goods, as well as a bonded warehouse to serve tourist resorts in the north.

Additional facilities have also been set up, including a designated area for domestic traders to unload goods and a special section for bulking and storing construction materials.

“These services will help businesses reduce the cost of transporting goods, stabilise market prices, and strengthen delivery to the public and businesses in the northern atolls,” MPL said in a statement, adding that the project aligns with the president’s vision of driving economic growth.

According to the Economic Ministry, plans are under way to expand the bonded storage area in line with future demand. The agreement was signed by Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed and MPL Managing Director Mohamed Rishwan.

The duty-free zone is expected to benefit not only Haa Dhaalu but also Haa Alifu, Shaviyani and Noonu atolls by providing cheaper access to staple goods and creating a logistical hub for northern islands.