Famous Pacific Shipping (FPS) Lanka ' a member of the FPS global network of freight forwarders - has launched a weekly ocean consolidation service from Sri Lanka to key points throughout the Maldives Islands.

The Maldives ' comprising several atolls and hundreds of small islands ' provide many challenges for shipping, due to the widely-varying and restricted port facilities. Vessel drafts are generally very limited, yard space is severely restricted and discharge facilities are often rudimentary.

The new FPS service operates from the company's bonded consolidation facility in the Port, via the Maldives capital of Male, to all main islands and locations including Hithadhoo, Gan Islands, Kuludhufushi, Thiladhanmathee, Felidhe and Mulaku among many others. Onforwarding to final destination is undertaken within three days of arrival in Male Port, using a variety of local boat- ('Dhoni'), barge- and landing craft operators.

The service includes Customs clearance and documentation in Male, on-forwarding to islands within 3 days of arrival, discharge and delivery to consignee. Customers can also track their shipments online.

Says FPS Lanka MD Gihan Nanayakkara: 'Many developments such as hotels and infrastructure projects are taking place across the Maldives, and are additionally creating considerable supporting traffic in general merchandise.

'This service provides an attractive, highly cost-effective new transport option for freight agents and their customers in the Indian subcontinent and further afield. With our vast experience in this market, and our well-established reputation for groupage services, we anticipate strong demand.'