Minister Saeed highlights progress on Maldives-India trade and investment talks
Economic cooperation between the Maldives and India continues to gather pace, with Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed describing recent discussions with India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal as highly productive.
Speaking in an interview with Indian media outlet WION News, Minister Saeed said the talks focused on expanding collaboration in trade, investment, the digital economy, tourism, and connectivity, while advancing negotiations on the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT).
Our discussions were highly productive and reaffirmed the strong economic partnership between the Maldives and India, as well as our shared commitment to expanding cooperation in areas that will deliver tangible benefits for both countries.
Minister Saeed stated
Minister Saeed said the discussions build on recent high-level engagements between President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with both governments working to translate political commitments into practical economic initiatives.
The minister said closer cooperation in digital transformation, improved air connectivity, and trade facilitation would support the Maldives' long-term development goals while strengthening business and investment opportunities between the two countries.
The conclusion of negotiations on the Bilateral Investment Treaty and the significant advancements we have made in fast-tracking the India–Maldives Free Trade Agreement build on the strong foundation established during the visit of His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to India.
Minister Saeed stated
According to Minister Saeed, the agreements are expected to provide Maldivian businesses with greater access to the Indian market, benefiting industries including fisheries, value-added seafood, marine services, digital technology, and creative industries.
The initiatives are also expected to attract more Indian investment into tourism, renewable energy, healthcare, education, logistics, and the digital economy.
The Free Trade Agreement will also promote trade facilitation by streamlining customs procedures, strengthening regulatory cooperation, and reducing unnecessary barriers to trade.
Minister Saeed stated
Minister Saeed said the agreements would improve the ease of doing business, encourage investment, and support the Maldives' broader strategy of building a more diversified, resilient, and globally competitive economy while further strengthening its longstanding partnership with India.
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