Economy.

Reports state that various parties are expressing differing views regarding the Rasmale project. Discussions and debates are taking place between the public and relevant parties concerning the various stages of this project. It is also noted that relevant authorities are working to clarify information regarding the matters arising in connection with this project.

The project to relocate the Male' Commercial Harbor to Thilafushi is an important priority project carried out by the government to provide a permanent solution to the space constraints facing the Maldives' economic and commercial sectors. Under this project, relocating the commercial harbor to Thilafushi will expedite cargo unloading and clearance operations compared to before, and provide major relief to the congestion on the streets of Male'. In addition, plans are underway through this work to expand port services with modern international-standard facilities and further strengthen the nation's logistics sector.

Following the implementation of MIRA's regulations to collect TGST from foreign tour operators and online booking platforms operating without an office in the Maldives, Italian tour operator "Kia Ora Viaggi" has suspended taking new bookings and selling trips to the Maldives in protest of this decision. In a statement issued by the company, it noted that this decision to suspend trip sales to the Maldives will remain in effect until the Maldivian government re-establishes an environment that respects international legal principles. In addition, the Association of Italian Tour Operators (ASTOI) has also expressed concern to the government, stating that these new tax regulations cause significant financial and administrative difficulties for companies.

Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) has revealed that 564 housing units in the "Amaan Udhares" and "Amaan Dhoodhi" towers developed in Hulhumalé are not paying rent regularly in accordance with their agreements. While statistics released by FDC show that 3,362 units are paying rent regularly on a monthly basis, the corporation urged those with pending payments to settle and clear their rent as soon as possible. Additionally, noting the importance of cooperation to sustainably carry out social housing services, FDC is also monitoring and taking action against irregularities such as unauthorized modifications to apartments and subletting.

The newly established fuel station in N. Manadhoo officially began providing service on Friday, October 2, 2026. With the official launch of services at this fuel station, convenient access to fuel services has been paved for vessels and the general public of Manadhoo as well as the surrounding region. It was also noted that this station will bring significant ease and facilitation to the island's economic activities and transportation system.

On October 2, 2026, it was reported that sugar prices in the global market have risen sharply due to the impacts of El Niño linked to climate change. The intense heat and drought brought by El Niño to the world's major sugar-producing countries reduced agricultural productivity, leading to a decrease in the supply of sugar to the market. Due to this supply shortage, international market demand for sugar grew, driving prices upward. This shift has affected food inflation, further increasing the prices of sugar and sugar-containing products in markets across many countries worldwide.