The Maldives currently runs a trade deficit with Sri Lanka of over $166 million. While this reflects the strong presence of Sri Lankan goods in the Maldivian market, it also signals an opportunity to deepen and rebalance the partnership through greater two-way trade, targeted investments and high-impact joint ventures, Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Maldives told the Sri Lanka, Maldives Business Forum held in Colombo on Tuesday (5).
He said according to widely published global economic and industry reports, three defining trends consistently emerge as shaping the future of economies like Sri Lanka and the Maldives. First, the reconfiguration of global supply chains. As businesses seek reliability, resilience and regional proximity, there is a clear opportunity for Sri Lanka and the Maldives to collaborate. By building an integrated regional value chain, particularly in fisheries processing, light manufacturing and logistics, both countries can strengthen their position within the global economy.
He said the second was digital transformation. From fintech to e-commerce and smart logistics, technology is fundamentally reshaping how economies operate. Saeed said Maldives is investing in digital infrastructure and services and welcomed Sri Lankan technology firms and innovators as partners in building a digitally enabled island economy. The third he said was sustainable and climate resilience. As frontline nations to climate change, both countries are uniquely positioned not only to get up but to lead. There is significant potential for collaboration in renewable energy, sustainable tourism, waste management and blue economy initiatives, areas that can also unlock access to green finance and global partnership. Saeed said the forum is not about dialogue. It is about action. It is about identifying bankable opportunities, building strategic partnerships and unlocking new flows of trade and investment.
“ Maldives is open, ambitious and ready to partner. Now is the time to act. Let’s build on our strong foundations guided by the vision of our leaders and driven by the dynamism of our private sector. Together, Sri Lanka and the Maldives can create a partnership that is not only economically rewarding but also resilient, innovative and sustainable for generations to come,” he added.
Source : Daily News
