Notification No. 01/2026-27, Dated 01-04-2026
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued a notification permitting the export of specified essential commodities to the Republic of Maldives for the financial year 2026–27, under a bilateral trade arrangement.
1. Permitted Commodities and Quantity Limits
The notification allows export of the following commodities, subject to prescribed quantitative ceilings:
- Eggs
- Potatoes
- Onions
- Rice
- Wheat flour
- Sugar
- Dal
- Stone aggregate
- River sand
These exports are exempt from any existing or future export restrictions or prohibitions during the specified period.
2. Designated Ports for Restricted/Prohibited Items
Where commodities fall under restricted or prohibited categories, exports are permitted only through designated Customs Stations:
- Mundra Sea Port
- Tuticorin Sea Port
- Nhava Sheva Sea Port
- ICD Tughlakabad
- Kandla Sea Port
- Visakhapatnam Sea Port
3. Compliance Conditions for Specific Commodities
3.1 Export of Eggs
- Each consignment must be accompanied by a valid Export Health Certificate
- Certificate to be issued by the Export Inspection Council (EIC)
- Must conform to Codex guidelines as required by the Maldives Food and Drug Authority
3.2 Export of River Sand and Stone Aggregate
Suppliers/exporters must ensure:
- Environmental clearances are obtained
- Mining is not carried out in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas
- Compliance with relevant environmental notifications
Additionally:
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) must be obtained from designated State authorities
- Exports must comply with State laws and judicial directions governing mining activities
4. Objective of the Notification
The measure aims to:
- Strengthen bilateral trade relations with Maldives
- Ensure stable supply of essential commodities
- Balance trade facilitation with environmental and regulatory safeguards
5. Conclusion
The notification provides a structured and controlled export framework, enabling seamless trade of essential commodities to Maldives while ensuring strict compliance with health, environmental, and legal requirements.
