The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has confirmed that 26 essential staple food products will be available at State Trading Organisation (STO) outlets across the Maldives this Ramadan at discounted prices.
Following the government announcement on 10 September 2025, which added 23 items to the list of essential food products in addition to flour, sugar, and rice, the ministry said the items will be available in Malé at STO People’s Choice, STO Wholesale (North Harbour), and STO Industrial Village. In Vilimale, they will be sold at STO Vilimalé Fihaara, while a new STO People’s Choice outlet in Hulhumalé will open before Ramadan begins.
The products will also be stocked in select outlets on other islands, including HA. Hoarafushi, HDh. Kulhudhuffushi, B. Eydhafushi, K. Hulhumalé, K. Vilimalé, L. Fonadhoo, GA. Vilingili, GDh. Thinadhoo, Gn. Fuvahmulah, S. Hithadhoo, S. Maradhoofeydhoo, S. Feydhoo, and S. Hulhumeedhoo.
On 15 October 2025, STO announced that the prices of 23 essential products have been set according to prevailing market rates and may fluctuate based on demand. Consumers can track updates and price information through the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade’s Agumaagu portal.
Minister for Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed previously stated that the government would intervene if essential food items are sold at inflated prices. Speaking on the Tharujamaanaa Eku podcast produced by the President’s Office, he noted that the President has instructed STO to ensure essential food products are accessible across all inhabited islands of the Maldives.
