The government is preparing to launch a pilot project in Laamu Atoll under the Agricultural Economic Zone initiative, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Maryam Mariya, confirmed on Wednesday. The move is part of the administration’s broader goal to expand domestic agricultural production and reduce reliance on imported food.
Responding to questions in Parliament, Minister Mariya explained that while the main project will require extensive land reclamation and time to implement, groundwork is already being laid. Land has been identified in Laamu Atoll, and discussions are expected to take place by the end of the month to determine which crops will be cultivated. The pilot phase is slated to begin next month.
The larger Agricultural Economic Zone project was initially planned for Uthuru Thila Falhu but has since been relocated to Fushidhiggaru. The State Trading Organization (STO) confirmed the relocation, citing the strategic aim of enhancing national food security.
Earlier this year, the Maldives Industrial Development Freezone Company signed an agreement with China’s Harbour Engineering Company Limited to carry out the project. It includes dredging 100 hectares of land to establish greenhouses, a training centre, and accommodation blocks. In its second phase, a specialised poultry farm will be added to support egg production in the Maldives.
Minister Mariya noted that the decision to reclaim land for the project was made due to the scale required for effective implementation. The Fushidhiggaru project is expected to commence in early 2026.
