As Ramadan begins, the Government introduced a series of proactive initiatives to ensure affordability, accessibility, and efficiency in essential services.

These measures include price controls on staple foods, temporary markets, and adjustments to business hours and traffic regulations, all aimed at enhancing convenience.

Building on last year’s success, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his Administration’s unwavering commitment to keeping staple food items affordable and accessible to all citizens.

“For the first time in the Maldives, we successfully prevented price increases on essential goods during Ramadan 2024, ensuring a consistent supply for citizens,” President Dr Muizzu highlighted in his 2025 Presidential Address.

To uphold this achievement, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade strengthened price control measures on essential goods, aiming to maintain affordability throughout the fasting month.

As part of these efforts, the Ministry closely monitors global market trends and local economic conditions, conducting rigorous weekly inspections across major retail outlets in the capital region. This approach helps stabilise prices and ensures fairness in the cost of key household staples, fresh produce, and seafood – items that typically see a surge in demand during Ramadan.

Essential goods under the price surveillance include:

A crucial part of these preparations is working with the State Trading Organisation (STO) to anticipate demand and maintain sufficient supplies. To meet rising demand, STO is actively expanding its inventory of critical supplies, reducing the risk of disruptions.

In addition, the Ministry developed an online platform called 'AguMagu1446' that will provide real-time price updates, enabling consumers to compare prices and make informed purchasing decisions with confidence.

To enhance the shopping experience and reduce crowding, temporary markets have been set up in key areas of Greater Malé, including Hulhumalé Phase 1 and 2, as well as near Hiyaa Flats. These markets provide residents with greater convenience and comfort as they prepare for Ramadan.

This initiative, launched in close collaboration with the Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works, the City Council, and the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), extends to all inhabited islands. Meanwhile, the 13 STO outlets across the atolls are being closely monitored, with emergency supply mechanisms in place to swiftly address potential shortages.

To further streamline logistics, the Government is coordinating with Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), Customs Services, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), and shipping services to fast-track the clearance of Ramadan-related imports.

Key measures include:

The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade also issued revised, citizen-friendly guidelines for business hours and road regulations. These changes accommodate shifts in daily routines during Ramadan, when residents fast during daylight hours and shopping and dining activities increase after sunset.

The adjusted operating hours are as follows:

Food establishments and retail shops

From 15 February until the first week of Shawwal:

During the first week of Shawwal (Eid period):

Cargo transportation schedule in Greater Malé

First 19 days of Ramadan & first week of Shawwal:

Last 10 days of Ramadan:

To ensure these measures are effectively implemented, high-level coordination meetings will be held weekly. The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, the Maldives Police Service, and other key agencies will oversee progress and address any challenges.

With these comprehensive and people-centric initiatives, the Government aims to create a well-organised, stress-free, and joyful Ramadan period, allowing allow residents to fully embrace the spiritual and communal aspects of the holy month.