A direct cargo ferry service has commenced between India and the Maldives with the government describing it as a new landmark in regional connectivity. The ferry service was first announced by PM Narendra Modi in June 2019 during his visit to the Maldives.
It was launched in an e-flag off ceremony jointly by MoS (independent charge) ministry of shipping Mansukh Mandaviya and minister of transport and civil aviation of Maldives Aishath Nahula.
India is currently the fourth largest trade partner of Maldives. Officials said direct ferry service will reduce transportation cost, provide a timely, short and cost effective means of transportation for goods from India to Maldives and boost bilateral trade. India’s annual bilateral trade with the Maldives is around $280 million. It’s also important for India that the service will improve regional connectivity at a time when it has been working to promote a number of initiatives in the Indian Ocean Region.
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