A total of 3,280 users have connected to the newly introduced PayPal service in the Maldives, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced during a press conference on Monday. Launched on 15 June, the platform fulfils a key presidential pledge to establish e-wallets featuring modern online payment systems and highly accessible arrangements for domestic and international financial transactions.
Responding to a journalist’s inquiry, President Muizzu characterised the arrival as a significant milestone that previous administrations had attempted but ultimately failed to secure. The current administration achieved the integration through dedicated efforts from its first day in office and will now focus towards expanding its domestic reach. The service has garnered substantial support since its debut, with 3,280 individuals linking accounts and 2,159 successfully activating their digital wallets.
Operating through a seamless integration between PayPal and Ooredoo Maldives via the Ooredoo m-Faisaa platform, the deployment formally classifies the island nation among the region's most advanced digital economies.
"The introduction of PayPal to the Maldives serves as a profound catalyst for the growth of our micro-, small, and medium-sized enterprises, particularly given its status as the world's most ubiquitous payment platform," President Muizzu stated.
"God willing, we will continue to secure further operational advancements through this digital integration," the president added. "In steadfast collaboration with both PayPal and Ooredoo [Maldives], we remain relentlessly committed to our ongoing efforts to introduce additional features and financial capabilities."