Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed has revealed that 225 applications have been received so far for participation in this year’s Maldives Expo

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, the minister described last year’s exhibition as the largest innovation and creativity exhibition held in the Maldives, noting that the initiative forms part of efforts to promote local talent and entrepreneurship.

According to minister Saeed, the application window for this year’s exhibition opened on April 7. He stated that the applications received so far include 158 submissions from individuals, 61 from businesses and four from non-governmental organisations representing 20 islands. The minister added that further applications are expected before the deadline.

The exhibition is being organised by Business Centre Corporation under the initiative of the Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade. Authorities stated that the event will feature both local and international stalls aimed at promoting creativity, innovation and locally produced goods.

Applications for Maldives Expo 2026 are currently open through the official expo portal, while participation guidelines have also been published in the Government Gazette. The previous exhibition, held at Hulhumalé Central Park in 2025, attracted participation from both local and international exhibitors and was aimed at creating market opportunities for Maldivian creators and businesses.