Maldives and Bangladesh are revisiting plans to establish a direct shipping link to strengthen maritime connectivity and improve trade between the two countries.
The proposed shipping route was discussed during a meeting between Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam and Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman in Malé on Sunday, as part of wider discussions on maritime cooperation and the blue economy.
According to the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, in addition to maritime connectivity, the two ministers discussed ways to expand cooperation in migration and expatriate welfare, tourism, education, health, and the blue economy.
The proposed direct shipping link is expected to facilitate bilateral trade and improve connectivity between the two South Asian nations.
Maldives and Bangladesh had previously agreed in 2021 to establish a direct commercial shipping line connecting Malé with three ports in Bangladesh under a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). However, the plan was never implemented.
With bilateral trade continuing between the two countries, the proposed shipping link could improve supply chain efficiency, reduce reliance on indirect routes, and create stronger maritime links between the Maldives and Bangladesh.
In 2024, Bangladesh exported USD 6.98 million worth of goods to Maldives, while Maldives exported USD 3.08 million worth of goods to Bangladesh, according to data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC).
