The Maldives recorded notable shifts in external trade during the first half of 2025, with total exports rising by 12 percent and imports falling by 2 percent compared with the same period last year, according to the latest Economic Update by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).
In June 2025 alone, exports measured on a free-on-board basis increased by 23 percent compared with June 2024. This surge was driven mainly by a rise in re-exports, particularly higher earnings from re-exports of jet fuel. Domestic exports also expanded during the month, bolstered by increased revenues from frozen skipjack tuna.
On the import side, expenditures measured on a cost, insurance and freight basis declined by 2 percent year-on-year in June. The fall was largely due to reduced imports of transport equipment and parts, electrical and electronic machinery, and construction-related materials. However, this decline was partly offset by increases in imports of furniture, fixtures, fittings, pharmaceuticals, and machinery and mechanical appliances and parts.
The trade trends reflect both sector-specific demand changes and broader adjustments in economic activity, with the rise in export earnings from key commodities helping to narrow the trade gap.
