News DeskFor the partners of Alholul Pvt Ltd, launching a Spa Ceylon franchise in this island nation’s capital was supposed to be a path to entrepreneurial success. But it turned into an ordeal testing their business resolve.
The duo secured a prime location on Male’ Fareedhee Magu but then discovered the Spa Ceylon and Spa Ceylon luxury Ayurveda brands were already trademarked locally. Seeking help from the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade led nowhere for weeks.
“The ministry’s legal apparatus remained apathetic,” said partner Mohamed Ali, exasperated.
So the partners took the extraordinary step of staging a protest right in the ministry. “We shall remain encamped until a resolution is forged,” vowed Mohamed Ali.
Their troubles reflect broader challenges for businesses in the Maldives. The country ranks a low 147 out of 190 nations on the World Bank’s ease of doing business index, scoring especially poorly on getting electricity, registering property, trading across borders, protecting minority investors, accessing credit and resolving insolvency. On average, it takes six procedures and 12 days to start a company, according to the U.S. State Department.
Determined to break the impasse, the duo resorted to unconventional tactics, staging a protest within the Ministry of Economic Development. Their bold move finally garnered attention, prompting the intervention of the ministry’s permanent secretary. In a swift turn of events, a resolution was reached, paving the way for their business to flourish without incurring financial costs or enduring protracted legal battles.
“The matter was resolved without any financial costs or snail legal remedy,” Mr. Ali said. Their triumph serves as a testament to the resilience of entrepreneurs in the Maldives, where navigating regulatory hurdles is often a test of perseverance and ingenuity.
Challenges like this highlight gaps in Maldives’ laws for new businesses, said Abdulla Naseer of Legal Aid LLP, which advises international companies. “The lack of legislation addressing cautionary notices leaves businesses vulnerable,” Mr. Naseer said, urging reforms.
