Minister Saeed Outlines President Muizzu's New Economic Vision for the Maldives

Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has stated that since assuming office, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has been crafting a new economic vision to take the Maldives' economy to new heights. Speaking at the awards ceremony of the Maldives Expo 2026, Saeed said the President has been sharing his vision with the public, highlighting the economic and fiscal challenges the country faces while also outlining a clear path forward. The Minister noted that despite these challenges, the President has provided guidance to seize opportunities both within and outside the Maldives. Over the past two years, the government has worked intensively to attract investments, from large-scale projects to small businesses, achieving progress that benefits all. Saeed emphasised that the most important role in the economy is played by productive Maldivian citizens, and that the President has set a special target for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and entrepreneurs. He said the President envisions a creative economy that will contribute 15% of the Maldives' GDP by 2030, guiding the youth to pursue meaningful endeavours. The Minister also highlighted that this year's Maldives Expo was the largest ever held, with participation rising from 240 exhibitors last year to 600 this year, and the number of products on display reaching 4,400. The number of districts increased from five to seven, including a new 'Visita Economy District' and an 'International District'. Saeed said the Visita Economy District opens significant opportunities for small and medium businesses in the tourism sector, bringing transformative changes to the visitor economy. He added that the International District will showcase technical products from countries with which the Maldives has free trade agreements or preferential trade arrangements, helping local businesses access new markets and scale up their products.