Maldives expands farming drive to cut dependence on food imports

MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldives is expanding agricultural projects across several islands as part of a broader strategy to reduce its heavy reliance on imported food, with authorities promoting modern farming techniques and a planned agricultural economic zone to strengthen long-term food security.

The Indian Ocean archipelago imports the vast majority of its food because of limited arable land, a dispersed geography and growing pressure from climate change. Successive governments have identified increasing domestic food production as a strategic priority to improve resilience against global supply disruptions and rising import costs.

Officials say the next phase of the strategy will involve pilot farming projects on larger islands, allowing authorities to test cultivation methods and build local expertise before launching a large-scale agricultural economic zone at Fushidhiggarufalhu.

According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources, planning for the flagship project has been completed, with administrative and technical adjustments underway following changes to the proposed site. The government says the pilot programs will help establish practical farming models that can later be replicated nationwide.

The initiative emphasizes smart farming and vertical agriculture, technologies that maximize production on limited land by using controlled environments and efficient irrigation systems. 

Authorities are also seeking long-term agreements with island councils to secure land for cultivation, while identifying locations including Kaashidhoo, Kelaa, Laamu Atoll, Addu City and Fuvahmulah City for future agricultural development.

The broader strategy gained momentum in 2024 when the Maldives Industrial Development Free Zone signed an agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company to develop the Fushidhiggarufalhu agricultural economic zone. 

The project is expected to include reclaimed land, industrial farming facilities, logistics infrastructure and passenger and cargo terminals designed to support domestic food production and distribution.