The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Mumbai): India has announced a relaxation of export restrictions for essential commodities to the Maldives, despite existing diplomatic tensions influenced by growing Chinese involvement in the region. This move comes as India continues to enforce broad curbs on the export of various food items such as rice, sugar, and onions to stabilize domestic prices ahead of the general elections.
According to the government notification, exports to the Maldives for the 2024/25 financial year, which began on April 1, will not be subject to the current or future export bans. This exemption applies to substantial quantities, including over 124,000 metric tons of rice, more than 109,000 tons of wheat flour, and significant amounts of sugar, potatoes, onions, and eggs.
Additionally, India will allow the export of 1 million tons each of stone aggregate and river sand to the Maldives, signifying ongoing economic cooperation despite political differences. The decision highlights India’s strategic interest in maintaining a relationship with the Maldives, a nation that has been shifting its alignment towards Beijing under the leadership of President Mohamed Muizzu, who campaigned on reducing the country’s pro-India stance.
This policy adjustment by India not only aims to support the Maldives in meeting its essential needs but also reflects the complexities of regional diplomacy where economic ties are often balanced against political shifts and external influences.