The Government of Japan provides sea patrol vessel to strengthen the system and capacity of Maldives Customs Service to address illegal maritime trade

 
Malé, November 27, 2025 –The Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Maldives, Her Excellency Mrs. ISHIGAMI Rumiko, officially handed over one (1) sea patrol vessel to the Maldives Customs Service today.

The vessel handed over today is part of a broader initiative implemented under the Exchange of Notes signed in March 2024 for the Project for the Enhancement of Ability in Maritime Safety and Security, with a total budget of two hundred and sixty million Japanese Yen (¥ 260,000,000), approximately USD 1.9 million for the provision of a patrol vessel and fifty-six million Japanese Yen (¥ 56,000,000), approximately USD 400 thousand for the provision of equipment to support the operations of the patrol vessel.

The project aims to further promote the economic and social development of the Maldives and is specifically designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Maldives Customs Service, particularly in strengthening maritime safety, security, and surveillance operations across the nation’s vast sea domain.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Ishigami expressed her confidence that this contribution would bolster the Maldives Customs Service’s efforts in ensuring secure and efficient maritime operations. She also reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to supporting the Maldives in achieving sustainable development, good governance, and resilience through mutually beneficial cooperation.

The Government of Japan hopes that this vessel will greatly strengthen the capacity of the Maldives Customs Service in effectively carrying out its duties across the country, thereby contributing to the overall safety and prosperity of the Maldivian people.