MPL and Ace Travels Sign Deal to Expand Sea-to-Air Cargo Services

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) and Ace Travels Maldives, the General Service Agent for Qatar Airways, have entered into an agreement to provide sea-to-air transshipment cargo services, further enhancing the Maldives’ role in global trade.

The agreement, signed today at MPL's head office, was formalized by MPL CEO Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim and Ace Travels Managing Director Mohamed Firaq. This partnership enables the seamless transportation of cargo using a combination of sea and air routes, broadening the logistical capabilities of the Maldives.

Wajeeh Ibrahim highlighted that the sea-to-air transshipment service, launched in May 2024, has already yielded positive results, with successful shipments to various global destinations. He noted that while there has been long-standing interest from airlines in such a service, it had not been feasible until this initiative. Wajeeh also emphasized that the service will improve air connections between the Maldives and Europe, contributing to the government's broader goals of expanding economic activities and generating increased dollar revenue.

This service is already operational in countries like Sri Lanka, and the Maldives is now positioning itself as a key player in this sector. The partnership with Ace Travels is a critical part of the government's strategy to expand sea-to-air transshipment services.

Ace Travels Managing Director Mohamed Firaq expressed confidence in the initiative, noting the company’s experience in offering similar services and Qatar Airways' three daily flights to the Maldives as key factors in ensuring the success of this collaboration.

The first shipment under this service was completed in May 2024, involving a consignment of garments from Bangladesh, which was brought to the Maldives by sea and then flown to Germany via Turkish Airlines. Since its launch, a total of 41 sea-to-air transshipment cargo shipments of garments have been exported from Bangladesh to various destinations through this service.
This agreement marks a significant step forward in enhancing the Maldives' logistical infrastructure, ensuring better connectivity and economic growth.