The Government is seeking to increase Japanese investment in the Maldives and build mutually beneficial partnerships to further strengthen economic ties between the two countries, Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam has said.
The Foreign Minister made the remarks while addressing a business webinar organised by the Embassy of Japan.
Minister Iruthisham said the Maldives and Japan share a close friendship built on trust, mutual respect and cooperation. She noted that bilateral relations have continued to strengthen over the years through cooperation in areas including infrastructure, fisheries, environmental protection, disaster resilience and human resource development.
The Foreign Minister said the Government places particular importance on strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries. She noted that businesses operating in the evolving global investment landscape seek reliable partners and markets offering sustainable opportunities, adding that the Maldives is working to establish itself as such a destination.
While the Maldives is globally recognised as a leading tourism destination, Minister Iruthisham said the country now offers significant opportunities beyond the tourism industry.
She said economic diversification remains a key priority of the Government, with reforms being implemented to strengthen the investment landscape, modernise the regulatory framework and create a more business-friendly environment.
Minister Iruthisham highlighted Japan as one of the world’s most advanced economies and stressed the importance of drawing on the innovative expertise and technological capabilities of Japanese companies.
She said efforts must be made to facilitate greater Japanese investment in the Maldives and create opportunities to establish partnerships that benefit both countries.
The webinar highlighted investment opportunities in priority sectors identified by the Maldives, including bunkering, maritime services, renewable energy, financial services, industrial development, special economic zones, digital businesses, e-commerce and the creative economy.
Participants were also briefed on the investment environment in the Maldives, available opportunities and Government policies introduced to support foreign investors.