Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has emphasised that regular dialogue meetings with businesses are important to identify issues and improve services.
The Minister made the statement while addressing a ceremony held on the occasion of Authentic Maldives’ sixth anniversary.
In his remarks, the Minister said the government plans to continue holding meetings with small businesses in 2026 and 2027, together with concessions that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has decided to provide to small businesses over the next two years. The government also provided several concessions and opportunities to businesses in 2025.
Launched on January 9, 2020, Authentic Maldives is now celebrating its 6th anniversary. The brand aims to promote, sell, and profit from local products, connecting artisans, small businesses, and entrepreneurs to local and international markets.
With over 407 businesses registered as suppliers, Authentic Maldives enabled its suppliers to sell on the leading global e-commerce platform, Alibaba, in 2025. Over the last year, total revenue disbursed to suppliers increased from USD 1.71 million in 2024 to USD 2.01 million in 2025. A portion of payments is now issued in dollars, making imports easier.