The government of India has approved the export of essential commodities to the Maldives for the 2026–2027 period under a bilateral arrangement, with quantities set at the highest levels since the mechanism was introduced in 1981.

The High Commission of India in the Maldives said the decision was made following a request from the Maldivian Government, with approved exports including eggs, potatoes, onions, rice, wheat flour, sugar, lentils, stone aggregate and river sand, based on requirements submitted by the Maldives.

Under the approved quota, significant volumes have been allocated, including over 448 million eggs, 230,429 metric tonnes of rice, 114,621 metric tonnes of wheat flour, 67,719 metric tonnes of sugar and 1.3 million metric tonnes each of stone aggregate and river sand, reflecting increased supply to support both food security and construction needs.

The arrangement also provides that exports of these commodities will remain exempt from any existing or future export restrictions during the financial year, while certain items such as river sand and stone aggregate will be subject to environmental clearances and regulatory compliance.

The High Commission further stated that the continued supply of essential goods underscores India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives’ development, in line with its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, with the agreement serving as a key mechanism to ensure stable access to critical commodities.