The Business Center Corporation (BCC) has stated that the ‘Maaran’ga Market’ recently held in Maafushi, Kaafu Atoll received significant public support.
The ‘Maaran’ga Market’ is an initiative led by BCC as part of the government’s efforts to promote small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the Maldives.
Organised in collaboration with the Maafushi Council and the K.Maafushi Local Authority Company Limited (KMLAC), the market aims to provide businesses with an opportunity to showcase and sell their products.
Starting this April, the market is scheduled to be held once every month in Maafushi. This month’s market took place from the 23rd to the 25th, operating daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
A total of 12 kiosks were allocated at the market; 4 for businesses from Maafushi and 8 for businesses from Malé City. These kiosks featured a variety of products, including food items, pastries, and handmade goods.
Some participating businesses noted that such markets offer valuable opportunities to promote locally made products in the Maldives.
During a visit to the market, the Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, met with participants and listened to their concerns.
Speaking to PSM News, the minister highlighted that the ‘Maaran’ga Market’ provides a major opportunity for SMEs to market their products. He also noted the strong interest shown by tourists.
“We are very pleased to see, especially women entrepreneurs, putting in significant effort, travelling by ferry to Maafushi and bringing their products themselves. It is very encouraging that tourists, as well as residents and visitors to the island, are showing interest in this initiative,” the minister said.
Maafushi, a well-known hub for tourism-related businesses, is expected to see considerable benefits for small businesses through initiatives like this market, according to BCC.