The Maldives generated around USD 21.07 million in import and export earnings in December of last year, according to the Maldives Customs Service, reflecting a steady flow of trade activity.
According to Customs data, imports totaled USD 343.7 million, with food items topping the list at USD 73.9 million, followed by machinery and electrical equipment (USD 64.3 million), fuel (USD 57.7 million), chemicals (USD 19.5 million), construction gravel (USD 8.8 million), and vehicles (USD 5.3 million).
China emerged as the largest source of imports, supplying goods worth USD 61.2 million, while Oman and the UAE followed with USD 49.7 million and USD 44.6 million respectively.
On the export front, the Maldives earned USD 13.2 million, primarily through seafood exports—chilled seafood accounted for USD 5.8 million, with canned seafood, chilled yellowfin tuna, and other fish products contributing significantly.
Thailand was the top export destination, receiving goods valued at USD 7.8 million, followed by the UK (USD 2.1 million), France (USD 518,806), Bangladesh (USD 453,955), and India (USD 389,105).
Customs data also revealed a notable increase in maritime traffic, with 143 vessels arriving and 174 departing in December—a significant rise compared to 120 arrivals and departures recorded by the same month in 2024.