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President Mohamed Muizzu has called on Chinese investors to support the Maldives’ development goals for 2040, highlighting trade opportunities, digital transformation and the benefits of closer economic cooperation.
Mariyam Adheela
President Mohamed Muizzu -- Photo: President Office
MALE’, Maldives: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has invited Chinese investors to participate in the Maldives’ vision of becoming a developed nation by 2040, highlighting opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology and economic development.
Speaking at the China-Maldives Investment Cooperation Forum in Male’, the President said the free trade agreement between the two countries had opened new opportunities for Maldivian businesses to access international markets.
Muizzu noted that the Maldives imported goods worth US$440 million from China between January last year and August this year. Of that amount, approximately US$124 million worth of imports entered under the bilateral free trade agreement.
The President also encouraged Chinese businesses to work with Maldivian entrepreneurs to expand opportunities for local products, particularly fish and other Maldivian-made goods, in the Chinese market.
He highlighted the government’s Maldives 2.0 vision, which aims to develop a digital economy. Digital payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, he said, have made transactions more convenient for tourists and created opportunities for businesses to expand their services.
Muizzu described digital transformation as an important way to create opportunities for young people and help overcome geographical barriers that can limit access to economic activities.
The President also highlighted the Foreign Investment Act, saying it had created more opportunities for investors and helped establish a more transparent system that builds confidence.
He stressed that achieving the Maldives’ long-term development ambitions would require economic diversification and cooperation with international partners.
Muizzu called on Chinese investors to contribute their experience, innovation and expertise towards achieving the country’s 2040 vision, underscoring the importance of strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
