Maldives Ports Limited has refused to release details of agreements signed with China Harbour Engineering Company for the relocation of the main commercial port from Male' to Thilafushi, citing confidentiality.
In responses to right-to-information requests, MPL stated that the contracts signed on 5 February and 20 July 2026 include non-disclosure provisions that bar public release of their contents.
The work covers construction of a 375-metre international quay wall, a 14.6-metre container quay wall and an 820-metre domestic quay wall under the Local Harbour Relief Project. MPL also declined to disclose the total value of the agreements, arguing that release could reveal trade secrets and harm commercial interests.
The decision follows earlier criticism of opaque contracts. President Mohamed Muizzu has previously expressed concern about secret agreements made by past administrations.
The port relocation is intended to ease congestion in Male' and expand capacity. The first phase was awarded to the Chinese firm earlier this year.
