Inter-island travel fares from Male' double; Saeed says solutions are being sought through the President’s strategic vision!
Minister Saeed stated that additional fuel shipments are scheduled to arrive in the Maldives in accordance with the agreed-upon nominations and timelines established with STO's suppliers, ensuring that fuel, gas, and essential food staples will remain available without any disruptions.
Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed. | President's Office | President's Office
As travel costs from Male' to the islands have doubled, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has stated that efforts are underway to resolve fuel supply challenges through the strategic vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Fares for boats and speedboats traveling from Male' to the islands have doubled. Sources who spoke to RaajjeMV stated that fuel shortages have caused prices to skyrocket in several parts of the country.
As the global fuel crisis intensifies due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, local vessel operators have been forced to hike their prices in response to the rising costs. Speaking to RaajjeMV, the owner of a speedboat operating the Kaashidhoo route stated that fares have doubled. While a trip previously cost 300 Rufiyaa, the price has now surged to 600 Rufiyaa.
Furthermore, in several islands across the central atolls, some speedboat operators that previously charged 450 MVR for travel have now doubled their fares to 900 MVR.
Amidst a worsening fuel shortage and rising service costs, Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed stated in a post on X that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has not only driven up global oil prices but also created significant challenges for fuel supply chains. The Minister further noted that the government is taking swift and strategic measures under the proactive leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to minimize the impact of this situation on the nation and its citizens.
Saeed stated that STO is currently maintaining the country's fuel reserves to ensure there are no shortages. He further noted that STO imports fuel based on national demand, utilizing a pre-arranged "nomination" agreement established with their suppliers.
Saeed stated that two new shipments of fuel have already arrived in the Maldives this week. Noting that additional fuel shipments are scheduled to arrive in accordance with the nominations and dates agreed upon between STO and its suppliers, Saeed assured the public that fuel, gas, staple foods, and other essential commodities will continue to be imported and remain available without any disruptions.
