The Maldives recorded impressive trade figures in January 2025, with imports reaching MVR 5.2 billion and exports totaling MVR 144 million. This data underscores the country’s thriving commercial activity, driven by its robust fisheries sector and strong relationships with key trading partners.
Imports and Revenue
Fuel imports accounted for MVR 728 million of the total imports, while imports excluding fuel stood at MVR 4.4 billion. The largest import categories were food items (excluding pork, alcohol, and tobacco) and machinery, each valued at MVR 960 million. Fuel imports followed closely at MVR 728 million. Other major import categories included paper and printed materials (MVR 403 million), base metals (MVR 338 million), and miscellaneous manufactured articles (MVR 309 million). The Maldives also imported MVR 245 million worth of vessels and aircraft parts.
Customs revenue for the month was MVR 287 million, with an additional MVR 24 million collected as royalty. India, China, and the United Arab Emirates each contributed 20% to the country’s total imports, amounting to over MVR 1 billion from each nation. Malaysia and Singapore followed, accounting for 8% and 6% of total imports, respectively.
Exports and Key Markets
The Maldives’ primary export remained frozen skipjack tuna, valued at MVR 73 million. Processed skipjack tuna accounted for MVR 29 million, while frozen yellowfin tuna contributed MVR 15 million. Exports of fish meal and fresh yellowfin tuna loins also added to the total.
Thailand remained the top export destination, receiving 47% (MVR 68 million) of total Maldivian exports. Great Britain followed at 17% (MVR 25 million), with Vietnam, Bangladesh, and India also among the top markets.
Vessel Arrivals and Trade Activity
Port activity showed a decline in vessel arrivals, dropping from 132 in January 2024 to 118 in January 2025. However, vessel departures increased from 140 to 153 during the same period. The number of customs declarations processed rose to 22,492, up from 21,801 the previous year.
The figures highlight a steady flow of goods into the country while exports continue to be driven by the fisheries sector. With India, China, and the UAE leading as key import sources and Thailand dominating exports, trade patterns remained largely consistent with previous months.
