Health
It was revealed on 12 September 2026 that significant difficulties have arisen in obtaining commonly used infant milk powder, such as NAN and Lactogen, from markets and pharmacies across Malé and the atolls. Although it is believed that this shortage was mainly caused by the regulations governing the import of breast-milk substitutes and logistical challenges faced in domestic air transport when ferrying goods to the islands, relevant official authorities have not yet disclosed a specific, direct reason. Relevant parties are currently working to resolve the issue and arrange for the availability of milk powder in the market again.
Shortages in the availability of baby milk powder in the Maldivian market have raised significant concerns among many parents. With special brands of baby milk powder becoming difficult to obtain from shops and pharmacies, families are facing hardships in procuring essential nutrition required for infants. In connection with this issue, relevant authorities and business operators are working to expedite the import of milk powder into the market and arrange seamless availability. Parents are demanding that a permanent solution to this shortage be found within a prompt timeframe.