The Maldives has opened its first-ever salt manufacturing facility, a milestone that signals new possibilities for domestic production and international trade. Located in Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo, the factory was developed through a partnership between Maldivian company M. Deep Investment and a Japanese firm. Operations have already commenced, with exports to Japan underway.
The facility occupies a 15,000-square-foot plot leased from the Dhidhdhoo Council for a period of 15 years. According to local officials, the project was initiated following the council’s call for investment on the island, leading to a collaboration that is now creating new economic opportunities for the community, including employment for residents and revenue through land rent.
Interest in establishing the facility emerged after tests in Japan revealed that seawater from the Maldives had a particularly high-quality mineral profile, making it ideal for salt production. These findings prompted construction of the factory last year.
The factory produces three varieties of edible salt, using a sustainable method that harnesses sunlight and heat to evaporate seawater. Production spans about a week per batch, covering filtration, purification, and evaporation processes. The company is also exploring production of salt suitable for fish curing, with plans to further diversify the product line.
To ensure quality, testing is carried out regularly in both Japan and the Maldives. The company has stated that strict standards are being maintained throughout the process to produce premium-grade salt.
Looking ahead, M. Deep Investment has announced plans to establish four more salt production facilities across the Maldives. These future developments are expected to further expand the reach of locally made products, particularly targeting resorts and inhabited islands as key markets.
