The Cabinet has decided that State Trading Organization (STO) will begin bulk imports of the most commonly consumed food items in the Maldives.

In a post via his official X account on Wednesday, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated that, in addition to staples such as rice, flour and sugar, STO will import lentils, eggs, potatoes, and ten types each of commonly consumed fruits and vegetables in bulk. He added that the decision was made in consultation with the Cabinet.

The President stated that the move is part of the policy outlined in his manifesto to strengthen food security in the Maldives.

Data from the August update of the Essential Commodities Price Index (ECPI) shows that the weighted average price of essential goods rose by 1.92 per cent over the past year, while food prices increased by 1.96 per cent, raising concerns about the affordability of basic items.

Bulk imports are expected to reduce the impact of external price shocks on essential commodities and support greater price stability.