International

Among the key economic highlights noted on 27 September 2026, the Bank of Maldives (BML) announced that due to high foreign currency demand, processing dollar telegraphic transfers (TTs) through the bank is facing a delay of two to three weeks. Under the government's state-owned enterprise restructuring policy, a framework agreement to transfer water and sewerage services in Addu City and Fuvahmulah City to MWSC was signed by the company's Managing Director Hussain Fahumy and Fenaka's Managing Director Mohamed Afif Hassan. While more than 76 percent of the overall Thilamalé Bridge project has been completed, deck installation between Malé and Villimalé has concluded, and finishing works are progressing rapidly. In the fisheries sector, 80 percent of the work on the new 4,000-tonne cold storage facility being established in Felivaru has been completed, and Minister Ahmed Shiyam stated at the "Ahaa" forum that MIFCO will no longer export any fish that could be rejected by foreign markets. Additionally, relevant authorities are strengthening efforts to monitor vessels engaging in illegal fishing within the Maldivian maritime territory. The President has provided assurances that an additional large dredger will be procured for MTCC to expedite the company's projects. The national airline, Maldivian, has decided to launch special flights to Bangkok, Thailand, coinciding with the upcoming school holidays. In the tourism industry, the Hilton brand has expressed interest in developing more resorts and expanding investments in the Maldives. The Tourism Minister emphasized the importance of human connection and hospitality alongside modern facilities in advancing the tourism sector.