President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs, artisans, and freelancers.
In his message on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day, President Muizzu emphasised that the true strength of the Maldivian economy rests not within its largest enterprises, but in the breadth of participation.
He outlined Maldives 2.0, a national vision to build a diversified, digitally enabled economy that opens global markets to every local producer. The government aims to grow the digital and creative sectors to 15 per cent of the nation’s GDP, placing MSMEs at the centre of this transformation.
To distribute opportunities nationwide, the President announced regional cultural centres in Baa atoll Thulhaadhoo, Dhaalu atoll Rin'budhoo, and Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Gadhdhoo for heritage entrepreneurs, and a dedicated Creator Hub in Male’ for creative professionals.
He also highlighted engagements such as the landmark Addu Business Dialogue, which is yielding results with the nation’s first Trade Acceleration Zone across Addu City, Hulhudhoo, and Meedhoo, featuring a concessions package set for 2027. A strategic partnership with Alibaba has established a direct channel to international buyers for local producers under Authentic Maldives.
Addressing financial barriers, President Muizzu detailed the expansion of Shariah-compliant financing under the SME Digital initiative, covering working capital, business assets, the creative economy, and women entrepreneurs.
He highlighted innovations such as the SWIPE digital wallet by Bank of Maldives and the recent activation of PayPal integration in the Maldives. The government has designated 2026 and 2027 as years of special focus for SME advancement.