The Maldives government has waived off import duty on items used in the countering of the COVID-19 virus.
Earlier, President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had similarly announced exempting import duties on hand sanitizers and surgical masks amid the viral outbreak.
Maldives Customs Service on Saturday evening published a circular confirming import duties on face-shield, protective masks, surgical and protective gloves along with disinfectants have been waived off by President Solih.
The decision comes in light of the State of Public Health Emergency declared for nationwide, lasting for a 30-day duration.
According to sections 1 and 2 of Maldives Export-Import Act, the President of Maldives can under specific circumstances declare exemptions on duties for the benefit of the country or islands.
The rise in demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers have lifted up the price for the items in Maldives.
Meanwhile, the government of Maldives have been taking various cost-cutting steps to ensure the island nation does not hit an economic pit.
Maldives state recently announced an MVR2.5 billion worth of economic stimulus package, ensuring working capital and credit facilitation through local banks for businesses and companies.
The move comes in a bid to ensure the employee rights are protected, avoid employment redundancy as well as counter company insolvencies.
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