The Chief Executive Officer of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), Mohamed Wajeeh, has announced that the upcoming bunkering service is set to generate significant job opportunities and boost business activities in the Maldives. Speaking on a programme of PSM News, Wajeeh outlined the company’s plans to launch the service, which is scheduled to commence on 22 August 2024.
In preparation for the new service, MPL is currently developing accommodation facilities for its staff. These buildings are expected to be completed by 21 August, just in time for the service’s launch the following day.
Wajeeh revealed that MPL will offer a comprehensive range of services related to bunkering. In addition to fuel supply, the company will provide water bunkering services, clean water supply, cruise terminal pilotage, and tower services. Moreover, MPL will offer essential supplies such as food, lubricants, and spare parts to vessels utilising the bunkering service.
A key highlight of the new service is that all transactions will be conducted in US dollars, which Wajeeh noted will inject millions of dollars into the Maldivian economy. He emphasised that this influx of foreign currency will benefit both MPL and the national economy, while also creating new job opportunities in the islands where the services will be offered. MPL has already initiated recruitment for these new roles.
Wajeeh also highlighted the broader economic impact of the bunkering service, stating that it will create more business opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the area. The initiative aligns with the government’s goal of making the maritime industry the third largest sector in the Maldives. To support this ambition, two 4,000-tonne oil tankers are scheduled to arrive in the northern Maldives to facilitate the start of the bunkering operations.
The government is implementing the bunkering service in two phases. The first phase will see MPL providing an off-port bunkering service, with the second phase focused on developing a fully equipped port that can support all associated services required by the maritime industry. The bunkering service involves the supply of fuel to marine ships and vessels, a critical service for the growing maritime sector in the Maldives.
