The Indian government has decided to help the Maldives government to develop the recently inaugurated bunkering service.
The announcement was made after official talks during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's ongoing state visit to India.
"To also explore collaboration for development of transshipment facilities and bunkering services contributing towards Maldives Economic Gateway project at Ihavandhippolhu and Gaadhoo islands of Maldives," reads a joint statement.
Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed and five MPs from the Haa Alif atoll inaugurated the bunkering service in Haa Alif Hoarafushi island last month.
The first ship to have obtained the service was YC Barrier operated by Maldives State Shipping (MSS), a subsidiary of the State Trading Organization (STO).
The floating bunkering service was launched with the 3258-tonne MT Angel and the 3939-tonne MT Marine Bella.
They were specially designed and built to provide bunkering services. STO said the company will get ownership of the vessels under the Bareboat Charter concept.
The service will be provided by STO and Vitol, which also provides bunkering services in Singapore, the UAE and Mauritius.
Vitol is responsible for supplying fuel to the bunkers and advertising the bunkering hub.
STO said 300 vessels per month cross the channel through the Maldives where the service was launched.
