MPL CEO Mohamed Wajeeh has said that for the first time in the Maldives, the bunkering service is all set to begin on Thursday, September 19 and services will be available for customers on the first day as well.

Speaking on PSM's 'Raajje Miadhu' program, Wajeeh said that preparations for the launch of the bunkering service in Ihavandhippolhu have already been completed.

"As per our plan, we intend to start the bunkering work on September 19," Wajeeh said.

With the bunkering service, MPL will provide 14 maritime services to the boats, Wajeeh said. It offers pilot services, crew transfers, food, service from one boat to another, maintenance services, tug services, docking services, underwater services, and waste management services.

Wajeeh said the aim was to make the country 's bunkering service a major contributor to global bunkering services.

He further said that the bunkering services of the Maldives will be advertised in the international media as well and hoped that this too will attract more customers.

On March 13, STO had signed an agreement with Vitol Group, the world's largest power company, to set up a bunkering facility in Ihavandhippolhu. Vitol's role in the bankering business was to provide fuel to STO bunkers and promote bunkers. Vitol has also included the country in its bunkers map.

According to the STO, the bunkering service will start offshore with two barges.

The government expects USD 400 million in revenue to boost the economy even in the first year of bunkering services.