A six-day workshop series aimed at boosting the creative economy and expanding entrepreneurial opportunities in the Maldives’ tourism sector concluded on July 6 at Barcelo Nasandhura in Malé.

Organised by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, with technical support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the British Council, the workshops brought together around 50 participants daily. Attendees included government officials, technical experts, business leaders, and representatives from relevant agencies and institutions.

The initiative focused on fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation to support inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Discussions centred on advancing the Government’s strategic goals, improving profitability in tourism and trade, and enhancing the production of goods and services tailored to the tourism industry.

The sessions also gathered input from Government agencies to address key sector challenges. ADB highlighted the importance of collective efforts to promote the creative economy.

Building a vibrant, creative economy is a key Government priority. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed confidence that his Administration will reach its goal of increasing the creative sector’s contribution to 15 per cent of the Maldives’ GDP ahead of the 2030 target.