Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) and Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) have signed an agreement to handle waste collection from vessels seeking international bunkering services, as part of efforts to diversify the Maldives’ economy.

The agreement was formalized at a ceremony held at MPL, with MPL's CEO Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim and WAMCO's Managing Director Mujthaba Jaleel signing on behalf of their respective organizations.

Speaking to reporters after the signing, Wajeeh explained that vessels utilizing the bunkering services typically unload their waste before departure.

"Once the waste is unloaded, WAMCO will take over. WAMCO will handle the waste collection seamlessly. We have coordinated plans with WAMCO to manage this efficiently. The work will be carried out in a designated facility near the area, not in Uligam itself, but in one of the nearby villages. A specialized center will be established there to provide these services in collaboration with WAMCO and MPL," Wajeeh said.

He emphasized that this initiative would not only generate revenue for MPL but also create a new income stream for WAMCO.

During the event, Mujthaba acknowledged that removing used fuel from vessels would be a challenge but assured that WAMCO’s existing systems could manage it.

WAMCO is currently setting up a large waste management center in the northern part of the country. Additionally, a regional waste facility is being developed in ADh. Kunburudhoo, which will also support this initiative.

"Our plan includes setting up a dedicated tank for used oil, where it will be refined and processed for reuse. We already have international partners providing these services, and they will work with us to set up this operation," Mujthaba explained.

In response to further questions, Wajih added that although some countries re-export used oil and private companies had expressed interest in handling this, MPL had decided to entrust the task solely to WAMCO rather than outsourcing it to private entities.