The State Trading Organization (STO) has confirmed the relocation of the Maldives’ ambitious agricultural economic zone project from Uthuru Thila Falhu to Fushidhiggaru. The initiative, designed to bolster the nation’s food security, is now set to transform a new site into a hub for agricultural innovation.
The project, initially announced earlier this year, is being developed in partnership with China’s Harbour Engineering Company Limited. As part of the agreement, 100 hectares of land will be dredged to establish the zone, with construction slated to begin in early 2026.
Key features of the agricultural zone include state-of-the-art greenhouses for cultivating fruits and vegetables, a training center, and residential facilities for workers. A second phase will introduce a poultry farm aimed at producing chicken eggs locally, reducing reliance on imports.
The decision to opt for dredged land reflects the extensive space requirements for the project, which STO has deemed the most practical solution. However, the company has not disclosed why the project was moved to Fushidhiggaru.
This relocation underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing food self-sufficiency while modernizing the agricultural sector. The project is expected to play a pivotal role in securing sustainable food sources for the Maldives in the coming years.
