Maldives State Shipping (MSS) was formed in February 2020 and greatly helped revolutionize the shipping industry in the Maldives. After entering feeder operations with a chartered container vessel of 1100 TEUs, the MSS now handles approximately 60% of the containers that are imported from Colombo.
The company purchased the MSS Galena, their first container vessel with a carrying capacity of 680 TEUs which includes 60 reefer containers. Their aim is to increase the fleet at a rapid pace and become a prominent player in the region. The MSS has purchased a second container vessel to help accomplish its goals, and it is expected to be delivered to them by May 2022. They have also purchased a 43000 DWT bulk carrier to diversify operations, and her maiden voyage is to be expected by the first week of May 2022.
The Maldivian economy will be greatly benefitted from the work done by MSS, as construction materials will become cheaper to import. This move also makes it so that millions of dollars of foreign currency won't have to be sent abroad for such shipments, so this helps retain foreign currency in the Maldives.
MSS was formed by State Trading Organization (STO) to overcome difficulties faced by Maldivian traders and businesses from the absence of a reliable national shipping line. The Maldives once held the title of possessing the largest shipping fleet in the region, and MSS plans to reclaim that title once again. MSS also offers scholarship opportunities for youth that are interested in the Maldives Maritime Industry.