AGP Executive Report

Maldives Financial Expo 2026: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has launched the three-day expo at Hulhumalé Central Park, returning after a nine-year gap, with a focus on “Inclusion, Innovation, and Intelligence” and participation from banks, insurers, regulators and government bodies. UNRWA Support: The Maldives pledged USD 50,000 annually to UNRWA at the UN pledging conference, reiterating solidarity with Palestinians and urging sustained funding for the agency’s work. Tobacco Tax Update: Muizzu ratified the 20th Amendment to the Export-Import Act, setting cigarette and heated-tobacco import duties at MVR 4 per stick plus 30% ad valorem, while nicotine gum and patches for smoking cessation are duty-exempt. Diplomatic Credentials: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs received credentials copies for Maldives’ ambassador to Qatar, with State Minister Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi assuring support to deepen bilateral cooperation. Tourism Procurement Digitised: Visit Maldives Corporation launched a new vendor platform to streamline procurement, standardise vendor registration and improve transparency through online RFP/RFQ handling and document submission. China Tourism Push: The tourism and civil aviation ministry leads a high-level visit to China (1–11 July) to engage officials, airlines and tech firms, as China remains the Maldives’ top source market. Regional Connectivity Note: A report says Google is planning “connectivity hubs” in Africa and has previously mentioned hubs in the Maldives, linking subsea routes for improved internet resilience.

Maldives Financial Expo 2026: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu officially launched the three-day Maldives Financial Expo 2026 at Hulhumalé Central Park, returning after nine years, with a focus on “Inclusion, Innovation, and Intelligence” and bringing banks, insurers, regulators and government institutions together for public engagement. Tobacco tax update: Muizzu ratified the 20th Amendment to the Export-Import Act, setting cigarette/beedi/heated tobacco import duty at MVR 4 per stick plus 30% ad valorem, while nicotine gum and patches for smoking cessation are fully exempt. UNRWA pledge: The Maldives pledged USD 50,000 annually to UNRWA at the UN pledging conference, with officials stressing sustained funding needs and reaffirming solidarity with Palestinian refugees. Foreign service credentials: The Maldives’ State of Qatar ambassador Adam Shareef Umar received his credentials copy from Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi. Digital governance push (regional): Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo highlighted blue carbon finance as crucial climate and community infrastructure in Asia-Pacific talks in Bangkok. Telecom leadership change: Dhiraagu named Valdemar Ferradaz as CEO-designate effective 1 July, succeeding Ismail Rasheed’s retirement. Procurement digitisation: Visit Maldives launched a digital vendor platform to streamline procurement, standardise registration and improve transparency.

Dhiraagu Leadership Transition: Dhiraagu named Valdemar Ferradaz as CEO-designate effective 1 July, with Ismail Rasheed set to retire after nearly 40 years, marking a major telecom governance handover. Foreign Affairs Diplomacy: Maldives’ foreign ministry officials received credentials for the Ambassador of Maldives to Qatar, Adam Shareef Umar, underscoring continued bilateral cooperation. Maldives Heritage Drive: The Maldives is nearing completion of a nationwide digital archive of historical and archaeological sites, with 400+ sites already catalogued and remaining atolls expected to finish documentation in July. Culture Partnerships: CROSSROADS Maldives hosted a Ministry of Culture and Heritage delegation to explore ways to promote Maldivian culture and creative experiences through joint events and programming. Tourism Economy Research: A new study estimates manta ray watching supports over US$311m annually to the Maldives economy and could reach about US$8.6b in lifetime tourism revenue. Regional Business Links: Maritimo appointed KJM Marine as its exclusive dealer across the GCC and selected Middle East/Indian Ocean markets, including the Maldives. Global Political Note: President Muizzu joined international leaders congratulating China’s CPC on its 105th anniversary, highlighting party-to-party ties.

Digital Governance & Health: The Maldives is rolling out a five-year Maldives Digital Health Blueprint (2026-2030) to unify scattered digital health efforts into one coordinated system, with support from WHO, Japan, ADB and regional experts, aiming for more connected care across islands. State Enterprise Leadership: Dhiraagu has named Valdemar “Valde” Ferradaz as CEO designate from 1 July ahead of Ismail Rasheed’s retirement, outlining a structured handover to protect continuity in telecom and digital infrastructure work. Trade & Diplomacy: Maldives and India have kicked off formal Free Trade Agreement talks, with Minister Saeed saying the process is underway as both sides look to deepen economic ties. Culture & Partnerships: CROSSROADS Maldives met the Ministry of Culture and Heritage to explore collaboration on promoting Maldivian culture through visitor-facing experiences and events. Economy & Conservation: A new study estimates manta rays could add over US$311m annually to the Maldives economy and generate up to US$8.6bn in lifetime tourism revenue. Business & Investment: Maldives’ digital marketplace for local creators has launched, while Intour Maldives marked its 30th anniversary with partner and team events.

Maldives–India Trade Talks: Maldives and India have officially kicked off formal negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement, with the first round held this week after March’s Terms of Reference—aiming to conclude “soon” and expand market access for Maldivian exporters. Digital Economy Push: The Maldives launched Creatoll, a national digital marketplace for local photographers, filmmakers and visual creators to sell directly to international buyers, with verified profiles, creator-set pricing, and full IP ownership. Government & Opposition Tension: Former President Abdulla Yameen accused the Maldivian Democratic Party of losing its opposition identity and failing to hold the government accountable, responding to President Muizzu’s claim the country lacks a “genuine opposition.” Payments Update: Economic Development Minister Mohamed Saeed says PayPal is already operational in the Maldives, citing 2,100+ wallet activations and thousands of linked businesses. Regional Security Link: Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met Maldives Defence Minister Hassan Rasheed in Jeddah to review bilateral ties and defence cooperation. Tourism & Environment: A new study says manta rays generate over US$311 million annually for the Maldivian economy and could reach US$8.6 billion in tourism revenue over their lifetimes. Fuel Policy Watch (India): India cut domestic ATF prices by Rs 5/litre to ease airline costs, while revising export duties from July 1 and expanding exemptions to include Mauritius and the Maldives.

Maldives–India Trade Talks: India and the Maldives have kicked off the first round of negotiations for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA), running virtually from June 29 to July 7, with both sides aiming to sign by year-end and focusing on tariff cuts, simpler trade rules, and cross-border services and investment. Public Safety Modernisation: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reiterated the government’s duty to strengthen national security services, as the Maldives Police Service marked its 93rd anniversary; the Home Minister also flagged a “drone-first emergency response” system next year to send drones ahead of police and stream live video to command centres. Diplomatic Ties in Action: Maldives and India also marked 60 years of relations with a friendly futsal match between officials from the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the High Commission of India. Regional Governance Spotlight: A Maldives delegation praised decentralised, transparent rural governance after visiting NTR district in India as part of a training and field exposure programme. Tourism Creators Push: Visit Maldives Corporation launched “This is My Maldives,” a global photography competition under Creatoll, offering a MVR 50,000 prize for original submissions shot in the Maldives.

Public Safety Tech: Maldives plans a “drone-first emergency response” system next year, sending unmanned aircraft to incident scenes after emergency calls and streaming live video to police command centers, as part of wider police modernization including upgrades to the 911 Emergency Response Centre. National Security: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu told police service anniversary celebrations the government will keep strengthening defence and law enforcement, backing legislative reforms, new technology, and expanded training and facilities. Infrastructure Update: Rasmalé land reclamation is about 60% complete, with the full project expected to finish this year; MACL says operations restarted after a temporary slowdown linked to the Middle East conflict and rising fuel costs. Parliament & Health Policy: The Whole House Committee approved a government-backed proposal to cut import duties on cigarettes and other tobacco, including lowering per-stick duties and reducing ad valorem tax, plus duty exemptions for smoking-cessation products. Trade & Diplomacy: India and Maldives kicked off week-long FTA talks (virtual) from June 29 to July 7, aiming to sign by year-end and linking the deal with broader financial integration like RuPay and UPI. Culture & Creators: Visit Maldives Corporation launched “This is My Maldives,” a global photography competition under Creatoll, with a MVR 50,000 prize for the winner.

Trade & Diplomacy: India and the Maldives have kicked off week-long free trade agreement talks (IMFTA), running June 29 to July 7, with both sides aiming to sign the pact by year-end and focusing on tariff cuts, simpler trade rules, and cross-border services—alongside broader financial integration like RuPay, local currency trade, and UPI. Public Safety & Security: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed the government’s duty to strengthen Maldives national security services, spotlighting police development as he marked the 93rd anniversary of the Maldives Police Service, including plans for additional police facilities and upgrades to training. Infrastructure & Housing: Muizzu said about 60% of Rasmalé land reclamation is complete, with the project set to finish this year after a temporary slowdown linked to the Middle East conflict and rising fuel costs. Parliament & Health Policy: The Parliament’s Whole House Committee approved a government-backed proposal to reduce import duties on cigarettes and other tobacco products, including exemptions for smoking-cessation products. Disaster Readiness: MACL signed MoUs with NDMA, the Maldives Meteorological Service, and the Maldives Red Crescent to improve emergency response coordination at Velana International Airport. Energy Transition: Maldives microgrid work is expanding with flow battery storage and solar-diesel hybrid systems to cut diesel dependence on islands. Culture & Community: Visit Maldives Corporation launched “This is My Maldives,” a global photography competition tied to Creatoll, inviting creators to share Maldivian places, people, culture, nature, and experiences.

Airport Resilience: Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed MoUs with the National Disaster Management Authority, Maldives Meteorological Service, and Maldives Red Crescent to strengthen disaster preparedness and emergency response at Velana International Airport, including joint drills, clear responsibilities, and real-time information sharing. Public Finance Priority: Government spokesperson Mundhu said external debt repayment is the top economic priority, with plans to meet major obligations due in September while protecting essential services like fuel imports, salaries, and healthcare. Banking Modernisation: Maldives Premier Bank selected Finastra to upgrade international payments with 24/7 Swift connectivity and an API-first approach for future payment rails and added fraud/sanctions screening. Digital Border Tech: Japan donated a facial recognition system for Maldives border control, as the country pushes ahead with digital ID and modern border management. Regional Diplomacy & Security: Coverage around PM Modi’s Seychelles visit highlights India–Seychelles maritime cooperation and defence ties in the western Indian Ocean—an issue that keeps regional security and influence in focus for Maldives. Tourism Demand Signal: dnata Travel data says the Maldives is the top international summer destination for UAE travellers, taking one in five overseas hotel bookings.

Airport Emergency Readiness: Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed MoUs with NDMA, the Maldives Meteorological Service and the Maldives Red Crescent to improve disaster preparedness and emergency response at Velana International Airport, including joint drills and real-time coordination. Debt & Fiscal Priorities: Government spokesperson Mundhu said external debt repayment is the top economic priority to avoid default, while protecting essential services like fuel imports, public salaries and healthcare. Border Control Modernisation: Maldives received a Japanese facial recognition system for immigration counters at Velana International Airport to speed up checks and strengthen verification. Marine Protection Rules: New vessel regulations for the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) will require official registration and installed propeller guards, with enforcement by Marine Rangers and police from 30 June. Regional Diplomacy & Security: India’s PM Modi made history by addressing Seychelles’ National Assembly, stressing “old friends” ties across the Indian Ocean as naval cooperation continues. Tourism Demand Signals: dnata Travel data says the Maldives is the UAE’s top summer destination, taking one in five international hotel bookings.

Border Control Modernisation: Japan has donated 48 facial recognition systems to Maldives Immigration for Velana International Airport, aiming to speed up identity checks and strengthen border security. Marine Protection Rules: New vessel regulations for South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) will require official registration and installed propeller guards from 30 June, with enforcement by Marine Rangers and Maldives Police to prevent wildlife and tourist accidents. Regional Diplomacy: Maldives and Bangladesh reaffirmed closer bilateral cooperation after a phone call between their foreign ministers, including coordination in multilateral forums. Governance Reform Debate: MDP chair Mohamed Nasheed renewed calls for “The Big Change,” arguing the 2008 Constitution failed to separate powers and pushing for stronger independence of courts and commissions. Public Service Media & Culture: Visit Maldives Corporation and Public Service Media partnered to expand Creatoll, integrating PSM’s audiovisual archives to help preserve and sell Maldivian creative content. Health Budget Focus: Bangladesh’s health budget for 2026-27 prioritises disease prevention and reforms over unplanned hospital construction, with allocations nearly doubling. Maritime Partnerships: Indian Navy ships INS Ikshak (Seychelles) and Udaygiri/Kavaratti/Shakti (Thailand) arrived for port calls focused on interoperability, professional exchanges, and community outreach.

Border Control Modernisation: Japan has donated 48 facial recognition systems to Maldives Immigration for installation at Velana International Airport, aiming to speed up identity checks and strengthen document verification. Maritime Safety & Conservation: New rules for vessels entering the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) will require official registration and installed propeller guards from 30 June, as authorities move to reduce past accidents involving tourists and marine life. Diplomacy & Regional Ties: Maldives and Bangladesh reaffirmed closer cooperation after a phone call between their foreign ministers, including coordination in regional and multilateral forums. Governance Reform Debate: MDP chair Mohamed Nasheed renewed calls for major constitutional and institutional changes, arguing the 2008 framework failed to properly separate powers and make institutions accountable. Digital Culture & Media: Visit Maldives Corporation and Public Service Media partnered to expand Creatoll, integrating PSM’s audiovisual archives so Maldivian creative and historical content is easier to access and sell.

Border & Immigration Modernisation: Japan has donated 48 facial recognition systems to Maldives Immigration for Velana International Airport, aiming to speed identity checks and strengthen border security. Diplomacy: President Muizzu has appointed Adam Shareef Umar as Ambassador to Qatar and Thoriq Ibrahim as Ambassador to the UAE, after parliamentary approval. Regional Ties: Maldives and Bangladesh reaffirmed closer cooperation following a phone call between their foreign ministers, including coordination at multilateral forums. Governance Debate: MDP Chair Mohamed Nasheed says the 2008 Constitution failed to separate powers and argues for “The Big Change” reforms to strengthen independent institutions and limit political influence. Tourism & Culture: VMC welcomed the first Chinese cruise ship to the Maldives, while Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa named Audra Arul as Director of Sales & Marketing and Hideaway Beach Resort launched Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026. Digital Economy: VMC and Public Service Media partnered to expand Creatoll, integrating PSM’s audiovisual archives into a marketplace for Maldivian creative content.

Diplomacy: Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam reaffirmed closer ties with Bangladesh in a phone call with Bangladesh FM Dr. Khalilur Rahman, with both sides pledging deeper cooperation bilaterally and at multilateral forums. Governance & Reform: MDP Chair Mohamed Nasheed says “The Big Change” agenda will push major governance reforms, arguing the 2008 Constitution failed to deliver real separation of powers and accountability. Digital Government: Parliament held its first hearing on the Maldives Digital Identity Bill, with plans for a Digital Identity Technical Advisory Committee to set standards on data handling, authentication, privacy and system reliability. Appointments: President Muizzu appointed new ambassadors to Qatar and the UAE—Adam Shareef Umar and Thoriq Ibrahim—after parliamentary approval. Border Tech: Japan handed over a facial recognition system to support Maldives immigration and border management. Energy/Climate Resilience: Tencent’s CarbonX grant backs a MWh-scale flow battery for Himandhoo’s microgrid, aiming to cut diesel reliance and improve resilience. Tourism & Culture: VMC and MAYA welcomed the first Chinese cruise ship to the Maldives, signaling cruise diversification.

Diplomatic Appointments: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has appointed Adam Shareef Umar as Ambassador to Qatar and Thoriq Ibrahim as Ambassador to the UAE, following parliamentary approval, as the Maldives looks to deepen ties with key regional partners. Elections Commission: Muizzu also appointed Mohamed Shakeel, former Managing Director of Maldives Hajj Corporation, as a member of the Elections Commission after a parliamentary vote, filling the seat left by Mohamed Zahid’s resignation. Border Modernisation: Japan has handed over a facial recognition system to the Maldives to strengthen immigration and border management, aiming for faster identity checks at entry and exit points. Climate & Food Security Grants: The Maldives launched the VilunVeshi Grant Programme to boost climate resilience and food security, with support from the Asian Development Bank and implementation via SME Digital. Tourism Diversification: Visit Maldives Corporation and MAYA welcomed the first Chinese cruise ship to the Maldives, signaling growth in cruise tourism alongside the wider visitor target push. Outer Islands Energy: Tencent’s CarbonX backed a MWh-scale flow battery project for Himandhoo Island, intended to cut diesel reliance and improve resilience via a microgrid. US-Maldives Talks: Muizzu met US Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur to discuss expanding cooperation on economic development, investment, and maritime security.

Diplomacy: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has appointed Adam Shareef Umar as Ambassador to Qatar and Thoriq Ibrahim as Ambassador to the UAE, with both nominations backed by Parliament and formalised through Letters of Credence. Border & Tech: Japan has donated a facial recognition system to Maldives immigration and homeland security to strengthen identity checks and speed up passenger screening at entry and exit points. Elections Commission: Mohamed Shakeel, former Managing Director of Maldives Hajj Corporation, has been appointed as a member of the Elections Commission after parliamentary approval, filling the vacancy left by Mohamed Zahid’s resignation. Climate & Food Security: The Maldives launched the VilunVeshi Grant Programme to boost climate resilience and food security, supported by the Asian Development Bank and implemented with SME Digital, using micro-grants to larger demonstration projects. Energy Transition: Quino Energy received Tencent CarbonX support for a MWh-scale flow battery for Himandhoo Island, aimed at cutting diesel reliance through a microgrid with solar and storage. Sports & Tourism: SAii Lagoon Maldives hosted the Maldives’ first inter-resort padel tournament, signalling growing sports tourism and local participation.