Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has expanded its empty container depot in Kaafu Thilafushi to alleviate congestion at the nation’s primary commercial port.

MPL said the expansion is intended to alleviate space constraints at the Malé Commercial Harbour by improving the management and storage of empty containers. The facility is used to store, clean, maintain, and repair empty containers, as well as prepare them for reuse by shipping lines.

The Thilafushi depot, operational since September 2025, currently accommodates up to 1,600 TEUs. With the newly developed area now ready for use, total capacity is expected to increase to 3,000 TEUs.

MPL confirmed that land reclamation and site preparation works required for the expansion have been completed. The additional capacity is expected to ease operational pressure at both the Malé Commercial Harbour and the Hulhumalé International Terminal.

The company noted that while the expansion provides short-term relief, a lasting solution to space constraints will depend on the relocation of the main commercial port to Thilafushi.

MPL also confirmed that work on the new port development is progressing. Design and survey works for the first phase of the project were awarded earlier this year to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC).