India approves export of essential goods to support Maldives despite strained relations.

India has recently allowed limited exports of essential goods to the Maldives as a goodwill gesture amidst strained relations between the two countries. The exports include sugar, wheat, rice, onions, eggs, stone aggregate, and river sand for construction material.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) notification specifies the export of various food products and construction materials to assist the Maldives. This move comes after India had imposed restrictions on the export of these items to control domestic inflation.

India has permitted the export of 124,218 metric tons of rice, 109,162 tons of wheat flour, 64,494 tons of sugar, 21,513 metric tons of potatoes, 35,749 tons of onions, and 427.5 million eggs to the Maldives. Additionally, 1 million tons each of stone aggregate and river sand can also be exported.

The notification highlights that these exports to the Maldives will be exempted from any existing or future restriction or prohibition until 2024-25. The Maldives, known for its close ties with India, has been leaning towards China since President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in October.

While the Maldives is seeking closer ties with China, recent attempts by the Muizzu government to negotiate loan repayment concessions with India indicate the archipelago’s continued reliance on its larger neighbour. This move by India serves as a significant gesture to maintain diplomatic relations with the Maldives.