Import duty and processing fees have been waived for a number of essential goods for the duration of the State of Health Emergency.

While Maldives Customs had previously waved import duties for surgical masks and sanitisers, protective masks, hand wash soaps, protective gloves, and disinfectant have also been added to the list.

According to the Export-Import Act (31/79) of Maldives, the President has the discretionary authority to waive import duty levied on goods during special circumstances.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, demand for masks and sanitisers has risen exponentially alongside other health equipment.