Why the Maldives Imports Most of Its Food

The Maldives imports the majority of its food due to:

• Limited land: Only 298 km², little arable soil.
• Scarce freshwater: Relies on desalination (costly, fuel-dependent).
• Few natural resources: No minerals, forests, or significant freshwater.
• Population growth: Rising demand.
• Tourism-driven economy: Imports needed to service tourists.

Imports include rice, wheat, sugar, fruits, vegetables, meat.