Saeed says stranded containers in Sri Lanka reduced from 4,000 to 1,741

Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed says the number of Maldivian import containers stranded at Sri Lanka’s Colombo Port has been reduced from around 4,000 to 1,741, following coordinated efforts to clear the backlog.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Saeed said the containers had remained in Colombo due to the impact of the ongoing war and other logistical challenges. He noted that when he first briefed the media on Wednesday, there were 4,200 containers pending clearance, and businesses had requested the urgent release of 80 containers.

Saeed said the government and relevant agencies have been working closely with traders to expedite the movement of goods.

“Forty‑three days into the war, the number of containers yet to be brought to the Maldives now stands at 1,741. This is the result of the joint efforts of all concerned,” he said.

He added that imports have increased by 19 percent compared to the same period last year. The rise in airline flights has also made it easier to bring goods via air freight and air cargo, he said.

Saeed noted that he has been working directly with businesses whose goods have been delayed in Colombo, especially those importing essential items. Previously, he said priority was being given to two basic food items, milk and sunflower oil, to prevent shortages in the local market.