Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) cleared 165,023 freight tonnes of cargo in May, marking a slight decline from 165,945 freight tonnes recorded in April.
According to company statistics, container consignments rose marginally to 5,321 in May, compared with 5,307 in the previous month, while conventional consignments increased to 1,681 from 1,479.
At the Malé Commercial Harbour, MPL handled 27 conventional cargo vessels and 13 container boats during the month, compared with 34 and nine respectively in April.
Container throughput also showed mixed movement. Unloaded TEUs stood at 7,107 in May, up from 6,908 in April, while loaded TEUs rose to 6,673 from 5,830. Overall throughput increased to 13,780 TEUs, compared with 12,738 in the previous month.
Perishable imports continued to form a significant share of cargo flows. Egg imports totalled 64,758 packages, followed by onions at 36,829 packages, watermelons at 31,457 packages, and potatoes at 20,828 packages. Tomato imports reached 16,638 packages, while pineapples, cabbage, bananas and cucumbers also featured among key consignments.
MPL also conducted trial berthing operations in Thilafushi, Kaafu Atoll, aimed at easing congestion at the main port. The vessel MSS Galena berthed successfully during the trial, with 394 TEUs loaded within 20 operational hours.
The developments come as the government moves to strengthen port security and inspection capacity. Last week, authorities announced plans to install and operationalise a full container scanner at the main port within the next four months to curb illegal imports, including narcotics and prohibited goods.
Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance border enforcement, noting that authorities have intensified monitoring and intelligence-led inspections at entry points.
The scanner will be installed through a joint initiative between Maldives Ports Limited and Maldives Customs Service.
