Maldives opens first sea salt factory with plans to export to Japan

MALE, Maldives (MNTV) – In a bid to diversify its tourism-dependent economy, the Maldives has opened its first sea salt production facility, turning to its pristine oceans as a new resource for economic growth.

The factory, located on the northern island of Dhidhdhoo, was officially inaugurated on Sunday. Built through a partnership between Maldivian company M Deep Investment and a Japanese firm, the facility produces salt by evaporating seawater using sunlight and heat.

According to Public Service Media (PSM) and Sun Online, the Dhidhdhoo Council leased 15,000 square feet of land for 15 years for the project. The facility is expected to generate approximately six local jobs and provide the council with an annual income of 144,000 Maldivian rufiyaa ($9,350) in rent.

Local officials say early tests revealed that sea salt from Maldivian waters possesses high purity and health benefits, making it an attractive export product. Branded as Ten Py Sun Salt, the factory’s output will be sold both in domestic luxury resorts and exported to Japan.

“This salt is of very high quality—better than much of what is currently imported into the Maldives. It’s a source of pride for the people of Dhidhdhoo,” said Abdulla Rasheed, president of the Dhidhdhoo Council.

The factory is set to produce three varieties of salt, including culinary-grade salt. M Deep Investment also plans to develop a specialty salt tailored for preserving traditional Maldivian salted fish.

Company founder Hussain Risaal told state media last year that if the Dhidhdhoo venture proves successful, M Deep intends to establish additional salt factories across the Maldives.

The Maldives, a nation of nearly 1,200 islands, is acutely vulnerable to climate change and heavily reliant on tourism. Efforts to diversify the economy have become increasingly important as the country navigates environmental and economic challenges.