The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has assured that immediate action will be taken against foreigners found doing business illegally in the Maldives, urging the public to report such activities.
The Ministry said it continues to receive complaints about illegal businesses run by foreigners. While the Ministry has compiled a list of 34 areas where foreigners are prohibited from doing business in the Maldives, the Foreign Investment Act published on 3 September publicly defines these areas, the Ministry said.
A statement issued by the Ministry said it has identified two types of illegal foreign businesses operating in the Maldives. This includes foreigners operating businesses under the guise of local management, and businesses operating in prohibited sectors under the Foreign Investment Act.
The Ministry said several measures are underway to tackle the issue. It urged those aware of violations to report them via the Ministry’s website, hotline, or Immigration Watch. The National Taskforce on Combatting Illegal Expatriate Operations and Businesses will take immediate action against reported offences, it assured.