The 3rd steering committee meeting for the Project for Developing a Sustainable Agricultural Economy (PDSAE), funded by the Government of Japan, has concluded.

During the meeting, the project's progress and upcoming plans were discussed with partners, including the Ministry of Economic Development (MED), the Ministry of Fisheries Marine Resources and Agriculture (MoFMRA), Business Center Corporation (BCC), Urbanco, and the Agro National Corporation Limited (AgroNat).

Under the project:

• AgroNat is building the first-of-its-kind 'Agri-boat' to establish a reliable transportation system, reduce post-harvest losses, expand markets, and boost food security. The solar-powered cold storage on the boat helps curb fuel use and costs.

• MoFMRA's Good Agricultural Practices (M-GAP) Auditor's Training has concluded. A total of 54 participants, comprising 27 men and 27 women from 16 councils, health centers, AgroNat, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority, and the Agriculture Department, have been certified as qualified trainers. Their role is to ensure consistent auditing of agricultural practices and train others in responsible farming methods to improve food safety.

• The first volume of the SME Handbook by MED was also launched under PDSAE. The handbook offers strategies, tools, and knowledge to foster a thriving SME ecosystem for local businesses in the Maldives.

• Urbanco has announced Community Urban Farming 2, with 36 Community Urban Farming plots now open for farmers. These plots have been allocated as follows: 50% for women, 25% for youth and persons with disabilities, and 25% for general applicants.

Through this project, we are collaborating with our partners to enhance food quality, food security, and the growth of agri-entrepreneurs/MSMEs, to shape a sustainable agricultural landscape.