The government is set to begin construction this month for the relocation of the Malé Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi, a major project aimed at easing long-standing infrastructure limitations affecting the Maldives’ import-reliant economy.

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Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed announced the project timeline, stating that the foundation will be laid on 6 July. Harbour operations are targeted to be relocated by November 2027.

The country’s current maritime facilities have struggled to keep pace with rising demand. With a growing local population and more than two million tourists arriving annually, pressure on the existing port system has continued to intensify. Minister Saeed stated that the logistical capacity needed to serve around 2.4 million people has not developed at the same pace as the tourism sector, which remains a key driver of the national economy. He noted that the Maldives is still relying on a port built nearly 40 years ago.

The minister also highlighted the need to bring maritime infrastructure in line with the ongoing upgrades at Velana International Airport, stressing that immediate action is required to support the country’s expanding economic and logistical needs.

Preparatory efforts are already underway ahead of the official ground-breaking ceremony. As part of the interim arrangements, authorities have established a dedicated area in Thilafushi for storing empty shipping containers, helping to reduce pressure on the existing logistics network.