The development of a 200-hectare Agriculture Economic Zone in Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF) is set to commence in January 2025, according to the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Aishath Rameela. This ambitious project aims to boost the nation’s food security and reduce reliance on imported goods, particularly in the Maldives.
The project’s first phase will cover 100 hectares dedicated to greenhouse farming, focusing on cultivating imported crops in a controlled environment. The remaining 100 hectares will be used for the production of underground crops, including onions, garlic, and various fruits. Dr Rameela described this project as “one of the most promising” undertaken by the government.
Launch of M-GAP Quality Assurance Initiative
In a separate initiative, the government has launched a unique quality assurance audit for farming produce under the Good Agricultural Practices certification (M-GAP). Speaking on Public Service Media’s Raajje Miadhu programme, Dr Rameela stated that the M-GAP certification aims to assess and ensure that crops harvested from local farms meet international standards.
“We have brought in foreign auditors to verify if farming practices, including chemicals, nutrients, and fertilisers, comply with internationally recognised standards,” the minister explained. She also noted that Shaviyani Atoll Goidhoo has already received M-GAP certification, marking a significant achievement in local agriculture.
Dr Rameela acknowledged the declining consumer trust in locally produced food, mainly due to concerns over chemical usage, but expressed optimism that the audit would help restore confidence. “M-GAP certified fields instill greater confidence since we can guarantee the reduced use of pesticides
Further Agricultural Expansion
In addition to the quality assessment audit, the Ministry of Agriculture is launching several initiatives to improve the agricultural sector further. These include the country’s first-ever Agriculture Census, which will be conducted in collaboration with the Maldives Bureau of Statistics.
Dr Rameela also revealed critical agreements with the Chinese government, including research into diseases affecting local palm trees and the development of an assessment framework for wildlife imported to the Maldives.
Concluding her interview with PSM, Dr Rameela reaffirmed that agricultural expansion remains a top priority for the government and assured the public that the ministry is working diligently to realise this vision.
Once fully operational, the Agriculture Economic Zone and related initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in improving food security, boosting the national economy, and ensuring the availability of high-quality local produce.
