To import coconut palms and coconut palm products into the Maldives, importers are required to submit a laboratory test report issued by a competent laboratory in the exporting country, confirming that the consignment is free from specified diseases. This requirement is an important plant quarantine measure implemented to safeguard the coconut palms of the Maldives from serious pests and diseases occurring in the region.

In this regard, the Ministry has been consulting with the National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) of countries exporting coconut palms and coconut products to the Maldives. Following these consultations, the National Plant Protection Organization of India, through the High Commission of India in the Maldives, has officially confirmed that Lethal Yellowing and Cadang-Cadang diseases are not present in India.

Furthermore, the NPPO of India has identified Plant Quarantine Station laboratories, Indian Agricultural Research Institutes, and State Agricultural Universities as competent institutions for testing and certifying the absence of Bud Rot and Root Rot pathogens. For the information of importers and the public, a list of institutions capable of conducting these tests in various states of India is attached to this notice.

Additionally, the Ministry has attached a document outlining the requirements, guidelines, and procedures for the importation of coconut palms and coconut palm products into the Maldives.

This notice is published for the information and awareness of the public.