The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade is expecting the upcoming Maldives Expo to feature around 3,500 local products and innovations.
The government is set to host Maldives Expo 2025 this month—an event the Ministry says will highlight local brands, some geared for tourism exports, while reinforcing the importance of domestic production in the tourism sector.
Organised by the Business Center Corporation (BCC) in collaboration with various agencies and institutions, the expo will take place from 23 to 31 May at Central Park in Hulhumalé.
Speaking on PSM News' ‘Raajje Miadhu’ programme, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade Ahmed Mohamed said that about 5,000 products are expected to be featured at this year's Expo.
As of last Friday, products from 51 categories have been submitted across 21 different islands, he said. A special category has been introduced for State-owned companies with around five expected to participate in the Expo this year.
"We were afraid that we might not get that much reception because we are holding the Expo after six years. However, we are getting more response than we expected. We have to add more space in some areas,” Ahmed Mohamed explained.
The opportunity to participate in the Expo remains open and the Ministry will continue to accept entries for the next two days.
Beyond its focus on local industry, the expo will also feature international representation, with Sri Lanka and India confirmed as participating nations.
The initiative is being conducted under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, with the overarching goals of enhancing national productivity and promoting economic growth.
In a notable policy change, the BCC has lifted the restriction on the number of products a participant may exhibit. Previously, participants were limited to a maximum of 15 product categories. The revised policy now allows individuals and organisations to present an unlimited number of items, reflecting the organisers' commitment to providing "additional favourable opportunities" for contributors.
The BCC has also highlighted its plans to implement various initiatives during the event to support the growth of Maldivian artists and nurture their skills.