The maldives is grappling with a series of crises since Mohammad Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed leadership. Among the mounting issues is inflation, particularly evident in the skyrocketing prices of chicken. Reports indicate a staggering 100 percent increase in the cost of boneless chicken in the island nation.
In the capital Male, chicken has become scarce, with regional traders forecasting potential months to resolve the situation. Previously priced at 80 to 100 Maldivian rupees per kilogram, boneless chicken now commands 150 to 200 rupees per kilogram.
The shift in shipment routes is attributed as a key factor driving the inflation surge. Formerly, goods traversed from dubai directly to Colombo and then to Maldives. However, the revised route now includes Mumbai, elongating the supply chain and causing delays. The alteration, purportedly a response to heightened conflict involving Houthi rebels in the red Sea, has disrupted the usual flow of goods.
Maldives predominantly sources its chicken from Brazil, a leading global supplier of boneless chicken. The conflict in the red Sea, precipitated by clashes between israel and Hamas, has prompted Houthi rebels to target ships, necessitating a rerouting of shipping lanes. This shift has led to logistical challenges, prolonging the timeframe for chicken supplies to normalize.
