China Harbour Engineering to Develop Maldives’ Main Business Port in Historic Expansion

News

The first phase of development of the Maldives’ main business port has been awarded to China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, marking a major milestone in the nation’s economic and infrastructure development.

At a ceremony today, the agreement was signed by Mohamed Rishwan, Managing Director of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), and Mr Mao Bao, Country Manager for Maldives at China Harbour Engineering. Speaking at the event, Rishwan called the occasion “historic,” noting that the project represents a 40-year aspiration for MPL and a key step in supporting national business growth.

The development plan will expand the port from five to twenty hectares, including the construction of a 650m quay wall, a 125m roadside jetty, a bonded warehouse, an X-Ray facility, and other automated services. The project is designed for 30 years of continuous operation, with estimated goods clearance times reduced from five days to 48 hours.

As part of the initiative, the Male’ business port will be relocated to Thilafushi, freeing up the Maafannu area in Male’ for other purposes. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu confirmed that the migration will take place in November 2027, resolving current capacity challenges at Male’, Hulhumale’, and T-Jetty ports.

MPL stated that the designing phase is underway, with practical construction set to begin once final plans are approved. The project is expected to significantly enhance trade efficiency and bolster the Maldives’ business infrastructure.