Cabinet Moves to Address Construction Material Shortage, Strengthen Supply Chains Amid Middle East Tensions

The Cabinet has deliberated on urgent measures to address challenges in the construction sector and ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential materials, as ongoing unrest in the Middle East begins to impact global supply chains.

At a meeting held yesterday, ministers focused on the shortage of rock boulders—widely used in coastal protection and harbour construction—caused by disruptions linked to regional tensions.

Following discussions on a paper presented by the Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, President Mohamed Muizzu directed relevant ministries to undertake a joint study to identify alternative materials. The proposed solutions include innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally compatible substitutes such as construction and demolition waste, along with other suitable options tailored to Maldivian conditions.

To support this initiative, the President instructed the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises to allocate funding through a dedicated research grant, following Cabinet advice.

In parallel, the Cabinet agreed to engage companies specialising in modern coastal protection technologies to secure immediate solutions to the current shortage, signalling a dual-track approach that combines short-term relief with long-term resilience.

Strengthening Fuel and Energy Security

The Cabinet also reviewed a framework aimed at reinforcing national fuel and energy security, amid concerns over potential disruptions linked to the geopolitical situation.

The President directed that necessary regulations and standards be developed under the existing legal framework to support the proposed measures. These will undergo further technical evaluation by the Special Cabinet Committee on Middle East tensions before being submitted to the Economic Council for final approval.

Focus on Resilience

The discussions reflect a broader government push to safeguard critical sectors from external shocks, particularly as global supply chains face uncertainty due to geopolitical developments. The construction sector, a key driver of infrastructure and economic activity in the Maldives, remains especially vulnerable to disruptions in imported materials.

Authorities say the combination of research, regulatory action, and immediate procurement strategies is aimed at ensuring continuity in ongoing and planned projects while building longer-term resilience in national supply systems.