Government seeks investors to establish countrywide ferry system

Maldives government has called for expressions of interests to upgrade and develop a countrywide sea transport domestic ferry network, on a joint venture partnership basis with the government.

One of the five major themes discussed in the Maldives Investment Forum held in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore on Friday, the Domestic Ferry Network project seeks to establish a ferry system across 20 atolls between 179 transit islands.

“To the party that undertakes this project, the government will award two islands for a period of 50 years, exempted of land rent, to develop tourist resorts,” an official from the Ministry of Transport and Communications told Sun Online.

The government is looking for international investors who can overcome the geographical challenges in a feasible manner and establish a modern, comfortable and fast ferry network across the country, the Transport Ministry said. Officials noted that the current ferry system is inadequate and hinders access to proper medical facilities, education and employment opportunities.

Along with the completion of numerous airport projects that are currently planned and underway, the government expects the demand for a proper ferry system will increase over the near future, Transport Ministry said.