The Maldives has recorded continued growth in re-export earnings this year, highlighting the expanding contribution of logistics and cargo services to the country’s broader economic activity.
According to the latest Monthly Statistics published by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), re-export earnings reached USD 319 million so far this year, compared with USD 299 million during the corresponding period last year. This represents an increase of 6.8 per cent.
The growth comes as the Maldives continues to develop its sea-to-air cargo operations, a logistics model that allows goods arriving in the country by sea to be transferred to international air services for onward delivery to overseas destinations. Re-exporting generally involves importing goods into a country before subsequently exporting them to another market, creating additional opportunities for trade, transport and logistics activity.
The Maldives introduced sea-to-air cargo services in May 2024, taking advantage of the country’s extensive international aviation connectivity and strategic location in the Indian Ocean. More than 17 airlines have since participated in the operation, strengthening the Maldives’ position as an emerging transit point for international cargo movement.
The scale of activity has also continued to increase. In July alone, 633 tonnes of goods were transported overseas through sea-to-air cargo operations, reflecting growing demand for the service and its potential to support additional cargo handling, warehousing, aviation and logistics-related business.
Similar cargo models are successfully operated in major international trade and aviation hubs, generating economic benefits through faster transportation, improved connectivity and increased commercial activity. With a large number of international airlines already serving Velana International Airport and strong maritime connections supporting the country’s import network, the Maldives has significant potential to further develop this segment.
The Government has highlighted sea-to-air cargo as an area with strong prospects for expansion, particularly as efforts continue to diversify economic activity, strengthen international connectivity and create new commercial opportunities beyond the country’s traditional sectors.
The rise in re-export earnings reflects the growing importance of the Maldives as a regional transport and logistics destination and demonstrates how improved infrastructure and international connectivity can support new sources of economic growth.
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