The Maldives Customs Service has reported Maldives imported goods worth MVR 5.2 billion in January while exporting MVR 144 million.

According to the newly released customs data, imports including petroleum products totalled MVR 5.2 billion, with non-petroleum imports accounting for MVR 4.4 billion of that figure.

Just three countries supplied 60 percent of all January imports. Neighbouring India dominated with MVR 51.04 billion, while China contributed MVR 1.043 billion and the United Arab Emirates provided MVR one billion in goods.

For exports, Thailand emerged as the primary destination, receiving MVR 68 million in Maldivian goods. The United Kingdom followed as the second-largest market with exports valued at MVR 25 million.

Seafood products continued to drive the Maldivian export economy. Refrigerated skipjack tuna led all exports at MVR 73 million, with canned fish products following at MVR 29 million and frozen yellowfin tuna contributing another MVR 15 million.

On the import side, two categories tied for the highest value: food products and the combined category of machinery, appliances and electronics each accounted for MVR 960 million. Petroleum imports, including diesel, petrol and jet fuel, followed closely at MVR 728 million.

The January trade activity generated MVR 287 million in Customs revenue, with an additional MVR 24 million collected in royalties.