Food fairs play an important role in promoting local produce, Agriculture Minister Ahmed Shiyam has said.
Speaking in connection with events marking World Food Day and Farmers’ Day, the minister noted that such gatherings help farmers showcase their products, build direct links with buyers and raise awareness of domestically grown food.
Local production of vegetables, fruits and other crops remains limited but is expanding on several islands. Fairs and exhibitions provide a practical channel for market access, particularly as the tourism industry seeks more locally sourced ingredients.
The government has encouraged greater integration between agriculture and tourism through initiatives such as the Visitor Economy District at Maldives Expo and expanded retail space for Authentic Maldives products at Velana International Airport.
Minister Shiyam has previously emphasised the need for both practical training and market opportunities to attract younger people into farming. Food fairs form one element of that broader effort to strengthen food security and support rural livelihoods.
