Managing Director of the State Trading Organization (STO), Simad Ibrahim, has revealed that acquiring agricultural land abroad to produce farm products at lower costs is under consideration. He made the remarks during a press briefing following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement that the Cabinet has approved the bulk import of ten varieties of fruits, ten varieties of vegetables, and other essential food commodities through STO for distribution in the Maldivian market.
On his official X account, President Muizzu stated that in addition to staple imports such as rice, sugar, and flour, the government will also ensure the availability of lentils, eggs, potatoes, and other food items. The move, he emphasized, reflects the administration’s commitment to implementing the food security pledges outlined in his manifesto.
At the press conference, Simad confirmed that STO is making the necessary preparations to meet these requirements. He said the government is simultaneously working on boosting agricultural production on various islands across the country. For long-term sustainability, STO is also exploring options to secure farmland in foreign countries to reduce production costs. He further highlighted poultry farming as an area with significant growth potential.
Expressing confidence in the government’s strategy, Simad said prices across retail outlets are expected to drop once STO’s bulk shipments begin arriving. He clarified that the imports are not subsidized by the government, noting that STO generates its own U.S. dollar revenue through its business operations. The broader objective, he added, is to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar while ensuring affordability for the public.
STO has already imported a shipment of oranges, now being sold at reduced prices. While oranges are typically sold at between USD 0.65 and 0.83 each—equivalent to USD 4.70 to 5.20 per kilogram—STO’s new batch is retailing at USD 2.26 per kilogram through the STO People’s Choice outlet.
The government has also reaffirmed its policy of market intervention to stabilize prices of essential items, particularly during times of sharp fluctuations. In recent months, STO has imported onions to counter soaring retail prices and has routinely imported high-demand products during Ramadan for sale at discounted rates.
Alongside these measures, the administration has launched a scholarship initiative in collaboration with the World Bank to strengthen the Maldives’ agricultural sector. Ten fully funded scholarships will be offered under the Transforming Fisheries Management in Southwest Indian Ocean Region and Maldives project. The program, managed by the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, will enable students to pursue a Diploma in Agricultural Science at the Maldives National University (MNU).
According to the Ministry, the initiative is a strategic investment in human capital, designed to cultivate specialized expertise in agriculture, enhance domestic food production, and reduce dependency on imports. Applicants must submit their forms to the Project Management Unit of the Fisheries Ministry, with the deadline set for 18 September. Submissions can also be made electronically via [email protected]
The scholarship package covers full tuition, along with a monthly stipend. Students traveling from atolls to Malé for blended learning will additionally receive airfare, a travel allowance, and full support throughout the course duration, the Ministry confirmed.
