Saeed says President Muizzu began shaping a new economic vision long before taking office

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has been shaping a new vision to take the Maldivian economy to the next level since the moment he decided to run for office, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed said on Saturday evening.

Speaking at the Maldives Expo 2026 Awards Ceremony, Saeed said the President had consistently shared his plans to elevate the economy and had highlighted the financial challenges facing the Maldives at the time, along with the potential consequences if those issues were left unresolved. He said the President had outlined a clear roadmap for how the country would move forward despite those challenges, and continues to advise Maldivians to explore opportunities available both locally and internationally.

Saeed said the government has made extensive efforts over the past two years to attract investments in a circular and inclusive manner, noting that progress has been achieved that will benefit everyone, from major investors to the smallest businesses. He added that the most important role in the economy will be played by the productive people of the Maldives, and that the President has set specific targets for micro, small and medium enterprises, new entrepreneurs and youth.

“The most important role in the economy will undoubtedly be played by the productive people of Maldives, the smallest, small and medium enterprises and those who want to enter the business,” he said.

The Minister said the President has a clear vision for young people who bring constructive ideas and seek profitability, and has advised that by 2030 the creative economy should account for 15 percent of the national economy.

Saeed said this year’s Maldives Expo was held on an unprecedented scale, with the number of exhibitors increasing from 240 last year to 4,400, and the number of districts expanding from five to seven. He said the newly added Visitor Economy District will create major opportunities for SMEs in the tourism sector and revolutionise the visitor economy. At the same time, the newly established International District will showcase technical products from countries that have established or are working towards Free Trade Agreements and Preferential Trade Agreements, enabling Maldivian entrepreneurs to reach new markets and elevate their products.