The Indian government has announced the inclusion of Kandla and Vishakhapatnam seaports as additional export points for essential commodities to the Maldives. This decision aims to facilitate smoother trade between the two nations. These ports were notified on August 1, 2024.
It may be recalled that the Indian government had imposed restrictions on the export of certain essential commodities to the Maldives for the 2024-25 fiscal year dated August 1, 2024.
Previously, only four ports were designated for exporting essential goods under prohibited or restricted categories to the Maldives. These ports were located at the following custom stations:
i. Mundra Sea Port
ii. Tuticorin Sea Port
iii. NhavaSheva Sea Port (JNPT)
iv. ICDTughlakabad
With the present expansion, the number of ports through which prohibited or restricted has increased to six.
The move is expected to enhance trade relations between India and Maldives and ensure a steady supply of essential goods to the island nation.
By adding Kandla and Vishakhapatnam to the list of permitted ports, the government aims to improve logistics efficiency and reduce transportation costs for exporters.