Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) cleared 178,197 freight tonnes of cargo in September, according to statistics released by the company.
The figures include both containerised and general cargo. MPL handled 5,673 consignments from container ships and 1,667 from general cargo vessels. Fourteen container ships and 26 general cargo vessels called at Malé Commercial Harbour during the month, while three container ships and six general cargo vessels departed.
Container throughput reached 14,525 TEUs, with 7,139 TEUs unloaded and 7,386 loaded TEUs recorded.
Among essential food items, the largest volumes were eggs (77,595 cases), onions (41,122 sacks), bananas (39,582 cases), potatoes (23,610 sacks) and tomatoes (17,102 cases).
The government is advancing plans to relocate the commercial port to Thilafushi. The new facility is scheduled to open and begin operations on 11 November next year. Officials expect the move to improve the speed and efficiency of cargo handling.
MPL continues to manage the current harbour while preparations for the relocation proceed. The September statistics reflect steady demand for imported essentials amid ongoing development of port infrastructure.
