Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed has stated that investment forums held during presidential visits abroad play an important role in showcasing business and investment opportunities available in the Maldives.

Responding to questions regarding the Maldives–Sri Lanka Business Forum held during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s recent State Visit to Sri Lanka, minister Saeed said the forum was attended by a large number of Sri Lankan investors involved in various sectors of the economy. He noted that conducting such forums during presidential visits increases the level of importance and engagement given by the host country, highlighting the participation of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya at the Colombo forum.

Minister Saeed said one of the key priorities discussed during the visit was reducing the trade imbalance between the Maldives and Sri Lanka while creating greater opportunities for Maldivian businesses to operate and expand in Sri Lanka. He said the President consistently highlighted the importance of facilitating exports and supporting the international expansion of Maldivian businesses during his engagements in Sri Lanka.

The minister stated that the main objective of such forums is to promote the Maldives as an investment destination by providing investors with detailed information on the country’s economy, ongoing economic activities, changes to the business environment and investment opportunities across various sectors. He added that the forums also allow foreign investors to directly raise concerns and seek clarification regarding policies affecting investment in the Maldives.

Minister Saeed noted that discussions at the Sri Lanka forum also covered opportunities in sectors beyond tourism, including fisheries, agriculture and mariculture. He said many participants expressed interest in emerging investment opportunities available in the Maldives outside the tourism industry.

The minister further stated that feedback from business representatives participating in such forums indicated that the events serve as an effective platform for sharing information and strengthening investor confidence in the Maldivian economy.