News Desk
Malé, Maldives — A national body representing small and medium enterprises in the Maldives has endorsed a package of government measures aimed at easing long‑standing operational challenges, calling the reforms a rare instance of swift, targeted action in a sector often slowed by bureaucratic delays.
The Maldives Industry Chamber, in a statement released Monday, said the government’s decisions amounted to “a decisive step toward easing long‑standing operational burdens on local businesses,” following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement that several SME‑focused reforms will take effect on Jan. 1.
The measures stem from concerns raised directly by business owners during a meeting with the President earlier this month. According to the government, the Cabinet has already reviewed the proposals and agreed on steps to “improve the outcome of various initiatives in the sector.”
One of the most consequential changes is the extension of the demurrage‑free period for air‑freighted goods — from 80 hours to 124 hours — a shift traders have long sought as they grapple with high clearance costs and unpredictable logistical delays. The Chamber said the adjustment would “significantly reduce financial pressure” on import‑dependent businesses, which make up a substantial share of the country’s commercial landscape.
Other commitments include addressing delays in port unloading, clarifying regulations for guesthouse operators, and resolving vehicle‑registration issues affecting commercial fleets. All were raised by SME owners during the recent meeting.
In a press release, the Chamber’s interim president, Ali Fauzy, praised the government’s responsiveness.
“The President’s decision to act swiftly on the concerns raised by SMEs demonstrates a genuine commitment to strengthening the backbone of our economy,” Fauzy said. “Extending the demurrage‑free period, improving regulatory clarity, and easing operational constraints will provide immediate relief to hundreds of businesses across the Maldives.”
He added that the Chamber views the next two years — which the government has designated as a period of special concessions for small businesses — as a “critical window to rebuild confidence, stimulate innovation, and empower new entrants into the market.”
Muizzu Meets Small Businesses, Pledges Solutions to Ease Obstacles
Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has described the upcoming period as “two years of special concessions for small businesses,” saying the reforms would bring “great convenience and satisfaction” to both established SMEs and new entrepreneurs.
The Maldives Industry Chamber, a national body representing businesses across sectors, said it intends to work closely with the government to ensure the reforms are implemented effectively and deliver lasting benefits.
