The Government has initiated the development of a new Malé Wet Market Complex, a major infrastructure project aimed at modernising market facilities in Malé while improving trading conditions for vendors and accessibility for consumers.

Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure announced that the project has been awarded to TrustEng Maldives Private Limited at a total cost of MVR 126.36 million, with construction scheduled for completion within 600 days. The complex will be developed where the existing local market currently operates, reorganising market services in Malé City and bring several market activities currently operating in different areas under one central facility.

The new complex, designed as a six-storey building, includes a basement and terrace level, with an estimated gross floor area of over 95,000 square feet and a building footprint of approximately 15,525 square feet. The basement will provide parking space for more than 400 motorcycles, a feature expected to help address congestion and parking challenges in one of the capital’s busiest commercial areas.

Under the development plan, the ground floor will house the fish market, featuring 110 stainless steel kiosks and designated vendor areas for the sale of fresh seafood. The floor will also include a five-tonne ice plant to supply ice to vendors, helping maintain the freshness and quality of fish sold at the market. Meanwhile, the first, second and third floors will each accommodate 115 vegetable vendor spaces, providing organised kiosks for traders selling fresh produce.

The terrace level of the complex will be developed into a food court, with plans for multiple dining outlets that will offer prepared food options to visitors. This addition is expected to create a more vibrant market environment while providing a space where residents and visitors can enjoy food prepared using fresh ingredients available within the market.

Authorities note that the complex will be delivered as a fully finished, ready-to-operate facility, complete with vendor kiosks, market infrastructure and the necessary equipment required for immediate operation once construction is completed.

The development is expected to bring several benefits to both vendors and consumers. By consolidating fish and vegetable markets within a single modern facility, the project aims to improve organisation, hygiene standards and accessibility within the capital’s main market area. Vendors are expected to benefit from structured selling spaces and improved infrastructure, while consumers will gain access to a more organised environment when purchasing fresh produce and seafood.

Once completed, the Malé Wet Market Complex is expected to strengthen local trade and food distribution networks in the capital while contributing to ongoing efforts to modernise urban infrastructure and public facilities in Malé City.