Mohamed Ali Waheed, Assistant Commissioner General of the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), has been appointed as one of the 25 members of the UN Committee of Experts on International Cooperation in Tax Matters. It is the first time a Maldivian has been chosen to serve on the body. His term will run from 2025 to 2029.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel, said Waheed’s extensive expertise in tax-related matters and his professional skills would strengthen the work of the Committee. He noted that Waheed’s background would be particularly valuable in tackling evolving international tax challenges faced by Small Island Developing States, including the Maldives.

According to the Minister, the appointment demonstrated that Maldivians are capable of assuming prominent roles on the international stage, while also signalling the trust placed in the Maldives by the United Nations and the global community.

The new membership for the 2025–2029 term was appointed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The 25 experts will advise countries on designing and implementing tax policies that advance social, environmental, and economic development goals. Their mandate includes addressing complex issues such as taxing digital services without discouraging innovation, creating environmental taxes that contribute to climate objectives while safeguarding competitiveness, and ensuring double tax treaties protect developing countries’ tax bases while encouraging investment.

Waheed will join experts from countries including Singapore, Rwanda, Mexico, France, Nigeria, India, Switzerland, China, and Australia. The selection process attracted the largest number of nominations since the Committee’s inception, with the majority of appointees being women, underscoring the UN’s commitment to diversity in tax leadership.

The Minister stated that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's Administration will remain committed to supporting and facilitating such opportunities for Maldivians. He extended his congratulations to Waheed and expressed confidence that his contribution would strengthen international cooperation in tax matters.