Employment across several key sectors of the Maldivian economy increased in the final quarter of 2025, according to the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).

The central bank disclosed the findings in its Quarterly Business Survey Report, which compiled responses from 113 businesses operating across four major sectors of the economy. MMA said the surveyed businesses were selected from companies reporting the highest earnings within their respective sectors.

According to the report, employment levels increased in the tourism, construction, wholesale and retail trade, and transport and communication services sectors during the quarter. MMA noted that none of the surveyed sectors reported a decline in employment, based on responses indicating whether businesses had increased their workforce.

The strongest growth in employment was recorded in the tourism sector, which continues to be the largest employer in the country. MMA attributed the increase to the peak tourist season, with the sector’s employment index rising from 56 points to 57 points. The report also indicated higher industry revenues during the quarter, alongside increased expenditure on employee salaries. MMA expects the tourism sector to maintain this trend into the first quarter of 2026.

The wholesale and retail trade sector recorded the second-largest increase in employment. While overall business activity in the sector declined slightly during the quarter, hiring rose significantly, with the employment index increasing from 46 points to 69 points. The survey also showed an increase in staff-related expenditure, and MMA forecast improved business conditions for the sector in the first quarter of 2026.

Employment in the construction sector also increased, with the employment index rising from 29 points to 36 points. MMA said the growth was driven by an increase in construction projects during the quarter. Although expenditure on staff declined marginally, overall employment levels remained stable. The central bank expects the construction sector to sustain similar employment levels in the coming quarter.

The Quarterly Business Survey also showed no significant change in recruitment levels in the transport and communication services sectors during the quarter. According to MMA, the employment index for the sector stood at 14 points, indicating that while job creation was limited, there were no job losses reported. The central bank noted that recruitment levels were maintained and that expenditure per employee increased in the last quarter. MMA has forecast a positive outlook for the sector in the period ahead.

MMA said the survey indicates overall growth across all major sectors of the economy, with businesses reporting stable or improving employment conditions. The central bank expects firms across various industries to record positive performance in the current quarter.