Sri Lanka Invites Maldivian Investors to Expand Trade and Economic Ties

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has called on Maldivian businesses to explore significant investment opportunities in Sri Lanka to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two Indian Ocean neighbors. Speaking at the Maldives–Sri Lanka Business Forum, Prime Minister Amarasuriya emphasized that the strong participation from both nations' business sectors signals a deep commitment to closer economic ties. She noted that the relationship is rooted in shared culture and geography, with both nations facing common challenges including climate change, sustainable development, and the need for economic diversification. As Sri Lanka continues to recover from recent economic instability, the Prime Minister identified several key sectors where Maldivian investment could be mutually beneficial. Tourism, a primary economic driver for both countries, was highlighted as a priority for collaborative growth. Additionally, she pointed to the fisheries and mariculture sectors as areas with high potential for joint ventures. Last year, bilateral trade between the Maldives and Sri Lanka reached USD 137 million. Prime Minister Amarasuriya suggested that this figure provides a baseline for significant expansion, particularly if the nations focus on renewable energy and food-related industries. Beyond trade and investment, the Prime Minister highlighted the human connection between the two states, noting the large number of Sri Lankans currently working in the Maldives. She expressed Sri Lanka's readiness to share its expertise in digital transformation to support the Maldives' ongoing digitalization efforts. Closing her remarks, the Prime Minister thanked the Maldives for its support following Cyclone Ditwah, stating that such gestures reflect a genuine partnership that transcends political formalities. She urged Maldivian entrepreneurs and companies to actively expand their operations within Sri Lanka to build a more resilient regional economy.