The deadline for submitting Expressions of Interest (EoI) to operate in the Addu Regional Free Zone will expire on Thursday, with Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) inviting interested parties to submit applications before the closing date.

The Addu Regional Free Zone was officially inaugurated in Addu City last month as part of the Government's efforts to establish free zones in both the northern and southern regions of the Maldives to support economic growth and investment.

MPL opened the application process on May 22 for private and foreign companies interested in obtaining land and operational space within the zone. The company said EoI submissions will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Around 1.7 hectares of land from the Hithadhoo Port area has been allocated for the project, including a designated duty-free cargo and storage zone. Authorities stated that approximately 20,000 square feet of land has already been prepared for free zone-related operations

The Government has also announced a package of incentives and concessions to be offered between 2027 and 2029 to encourage investment in the zone and support business growth.

The Addu Regional Free Zone forms part of the Administration's vision to develop Addu City as a regional economic hub and expand commercial opportunities in the southern atolls.