Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has invited expressions of interest from businesses seeking to operate within the Addu Regional Free Zone, as efforts continue to develop the project as a major economic and commercial hub in the south.

According to MPL, parties interested in leasing land and conducting operations within the free zone are now invited to submit proposals for business activities, including cargo storage and related services. Authorities stated that Request for Proposals documents will be issued directly to interested parties and will also be made publicly available for wider participation.

The company noted that the current process is intended solely for expressions of interest and does not constitute a binding commitment between either party.

The Addu Regional Free Zone was officially inaugurated earlier this month in Addu City in efforts to diversify the national economy and strengthen economic activity in the atolls. The project is being developed through collaboration between MPL, the Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, the Maldives Customs Service and other State agencies.

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 free zone is expected to support activities such as duty-free storage, bonded warehousing, manufacturing, vehicle refurbishment and re-export services. The Government has also stated that special incentives and concessions are planned between 2027 and 2029 to encourage investment in the zone.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony earlier this month, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed stated that the initiative forms part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s broader economic vision to diversify the economy and develop Addu City into a major business and investment hub.