Weather causes Onion crisis for Maldives: STO to provide public relief

The State Trading Organization (STO) is intervening to tackle the persistent onion shortage in Maldives, as local suppliers have struggled to maintain a steady supply due to recent weather-related issues. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that STO has organized a shipment of onions anticipated to reach by mid-next week, intending to offer them at reasonable prices to alleviate the pressure on consumers.

The existing shortage occurred after severe weather disrupted normal weekly imports, causing multiple cargo ships to be stuck at Malé Port and in India, hindering the prompt unloading of products. Nonetheless, industry analysts note that despite the anticipated difficulties, local importers did not take proactive measures — resulting in a supply gap that has necessitated STO's intervention.

Prior to the depletion of onions, market prices stayed within the usual limits — MVR 350–400 per sack and MVR 18–25 per kilogram — but supplies rapidly diminished as shipments were postponed, increasing concerns about additional price surges and restricted availability.