President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has outlined the Government’s policy priorities for micro, small and medium enterprises, linking wider SME growth to digital transformation, access to finance, and broader participation in the economy.
In a message issued to mark MSME Day, President Muizzu said the resilience of the Maldivian economy depends on the participation of small businesses, entrepreneurs, artisans, freelancers, and creative professionals across the country. He said the Government’s Maldives 2.0 vision is aimed at building a more diversified and digitally enabled economy, with MSMEs playing a central role in that shift.
As part of this agenda, the Government aims to increase the contribution of the digital and creative sectors to 15 percent of GDP. The President said this would require stronger support systems for local producers and service providers, including access to digital platforms, financing, and international markets.
The Government has also identified several infrastructure initiatives intended to support enterprise development outside the capital. These include regional cultural centres planned for B. Thulhaadhoo, Dh. Rin’budhoo, and GDh. Gadhdhoo, aimed at supporting heritage-based businesses and artisans. A Creator Hub is also planned in Malé for professionals working in the creative economy.
President Muizzu also referred to the Addu Business Dialogue, saying discussions held through the platform have contributed to plans for the country’s first Trade Acceleration Zone. The zone is expected to cover Addu City, Hulhudhoo, and Meedhoo, with a concessions package planned for implementation in 2027.
The President also noted that the Government’s partnership with Alibaba is intended to provide local producers registered under Authentic Maldives with a direct route to international buyers. The initiative is part of efforts to connect Maldivian products with overseas markets and reduce barriers faced by small exporters.
Access to finance was another focus of the President’s message. He said Shariah-compliant financing under the SME Digital initiative has been expanded to cover working capital, business assets, the creative economy, and women entrepreneurs.
He also highlighted recent changes in the financial services sector, including the SWIPE digital wallet introduced by Bank of Maldives, which is intended to provide MSMEs with more flexible options for payments, cash flow management, and daily transactions.
President Muizzu said PayPal integration is now live in the Maldives, allowing local entrepreneurs and freelancers to receive payments through the global platform. The service is expected to support businesses and individuals working in e-commerce, digital services, and other cross-border sectors.
The Government has designated 2026 and 2027 as years of special focus for SME advancement. According to the President, the focus during this period will be on improving the policy environment, financing channels, and digital infrastructure needed to help small businesses become more sustainable.
In a post on X, President Muizzu said the strength of the Maldivian economy lies in the thousands of small businesses operating across the islands. He said economic opportunity must be accessible across the country as part of building a more resilient economy.
