DGFT permits essential commodities export to Maldives via Kandla and Vishakhapatnam Ports

NEW DELHI : The Indian government announced on Thursday that it will permit the export of essential commodities, usually under a prohibited or restricted category, to the Maldives from Kandla and Vishakhapatnam seaports for the financial year 2024-25.

With this inclusion, the number of ports sanctioned for exports to the Maldives has increased to six, enhancing bilateral trade opportunities.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) confirmed the decision in a formal notification.

Bilateral trade between India and the Maldives rose marginally to USD 978.56 million in 2023-24 compared to USD 973.37 million in the previous fiscal year. Indian exports reached USD 892 million, with key items including engineering and industrial products, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural produce. The development is pivotal given the recent diplomatic tensions between the two nations.