Sea-to-air cargo service drives a 6.8% increase in re-export revenue

Re-export earnings in the Maldives have risen notably this year, with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) reporting continued growth following the introduction of sea‑to‑air cargo services. 

According to MMA’s latest Monthly Statistics report, re-export earnings have reached USD 319 million so far this year, compared with USD 299 million during the same period last year, an increase of 6.8 percent.

Officials attribute the upward trend to the sea‑to‑air cargo service launched in May 2024, which allows goods arriving in the Maldives by sea to be transited onward by air to international destinations. The service has quickly gained momentum, with 633 tonnes of goods exported under the operation in July alone.

Within a short period, more than 17 international airlines have joined the system, reflecting strong interest in the Maldives’ emerging role in regional cargo movement. Sea‑to‑air cargo is widely regarded as a lucrative sector globally, enabling countries to derive significant economic benefits by linking maritime and air transport.

While similar services have long operated internationally, the Maldives’ initiative aims to position Velana International Airport as a regional cargo hub, connecting sea freight, port‑to‑airport transfer, and expedited air dispatch to European and Western markets. Authorities say the growing participation of airlines highlights considerable potential to expand the service further.