AGP Executive Report

Tourism Trade: Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) opened at Barcelo’ Nasandhura, bringing 130+ resorts and 250+ operators/agents from 30 source markets for two days of deal-making and partnerships. Resort Economy: MATI says a proposed rule forcing resorts to exchange 40% of foreign currency earnings via the Maldives Monetary Authority could hurt the industry, while Parliament rejected an emergency motion on the same issue. Nature Protection: A Palm Pest Biological Control Parasitoid Rearing Center opened in Hanimaadhoo, aiming to breed beneficial insects to tackle coconut palm pests. Coastal Resilience Finance: Environment Minister Ali Shareef urged COP17 to fund island-specific coastal land degradation, including erosion and saltwater intrusion, through accessible blue-green finance. Green Funding: Maldives Inland Revenue Authority reports green tax revenue of USD 84.31m for Jan–Jul, up 5.8%, supporting conservation and clean-up projects. Emergency Diving Care: MNDF received a portable hyperbaric transport unit donated by Hyperbarics Europe to improve treatment and evacuation in diving incidents. Wellness Travel Trend: Kandima Maldives highlights more active, wellness-focused holidays as travellers seek fitness alongside island relaxation. Industry Leadership: MIC Group promoted Mohamed Nisham to Chief Financial Officer.

Coconut pest control: A new Palm Pest Biological Control Parasitoid Rearing Center opened in Hanimaadhoo, aiming to breed beneficial insects to fight spreading coconut palm pests—an everyday threat to the national tree. Foreign exchange rules: Parliament rejected an emergency motion challenging a plan to require resorts to exchange 40% of foreign currency earnings via the Maldives Monetary Authority, with industry warning of economic strain. SIDS finance push: Environment Minister Ali Shareef urged COP17 to fund island-specific coastal land degradation, including erosion and saltwater intrusion, through accessible “blue-green” finance. Waste and plastic policy: Muizzu ratified amendments ending double taxation on plastic bags and tightening waste management rules, including fines and clearer roles for regulators. Green tax update: Maldives Inland Revenue Authority reports green tax revenue of USD 84.31m for Jan–July, up 5.8%, supporting coastal protection and clean-ups. Marine safety support: MNDF received a portable hyperbaric transport unit for diving emergencies, boosting rapid medical evacuation capacity. Tourism and investment forums: Antigua and Barbuda joined the Maldives and UN to launch an Island Investment Forum, while Muizzu and SIDS leaders framed small islands as innovation hubs. Fisheries upgrade: India and Maldives reviewed progress on the Felivaru fisheries project, including major cold storage and freezing capacity.

Fisheries Infrastructure: India and Maldives officials reviewed progress on the Felivaru fisheries project under an Indian line of credit, including a 4,000-tonne cold storage push plus brine-freezing and refrigerated seawater systems to boost fish storage and processing capacity. Coastal Cleanup: Sri Lanka’s High Commission collected 585 kg of beach waste in Hulhumalé—320 kg general waste and 265 kg plastic—working with the Maldives Ocean Plastic Alliance and local partners. Diving Emergency Readiness: MNDF received a portable hyperbaric transport unit donated by Hyperbarics Europe to improve emergency care and evacuation for diving-related incidents. Climate Risk Insight: New research highlights that sea-level and tide impacts can vary sharply within a single bay—up to nearly a metre—meaning some coastal spots face far higher flooding and saltwater intrusion risk. Waste & Plastics Policy: Parliament ratified amendments to the Waste Management Act: the ban on importing waste takes effect, and double taxation on plastic bags ends, with new rules for waste systems and enforcement. SIDS Finance Call: Environment Minister Ali Shareef urged accessible, island-responsive funding for coastal erosion and saltwater-driven land degradation at UNCCD COP17. Marine Conservation Event: Six Senses Laamu and MUI announced the return of the Laamafaru Festival on Sept 5, focused on protecting Laamu’s reefs, seagrass, and mangroves.

Green Finance & SIDS Needs: Maldives Environment Minister Ali Shareef urged COP17 to fund coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion and other island-specific land degradation, calling for accessible “blue-green” finance that actually reaches SIDS. Tourism FX Rules Under Fire: MATI warned that a proposed requirement for resorts to exchange 40% of foreign-currency earnings through local banks is “unsustainable,” after claims of black-market FX and rate inflation. Plastic Waste Policy Update: President Muizzu ratified amendments ending double taxation on plastic bags, including exemptions for point-of-sale bags and bundles over 50. Marine Conservation Event: Six Senses Laamu and MUI announced the return of the Laamafaru Festival on Sept 5, focused on protecting reefs, seagrass and mangroves. Green Tax Revenue: MIRA reported green tax collections of USD 84.31m for Jan–Jul, up 5.8%, supporting coastal protection, conservation and water/sewerage projects. Open Water Sports: Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026 wrapped up with 420+ swimmers, including para and Special Olympics participants, and renewed focus on protecting marine life. SIDS Business Forum: Maldives will host the SIDS Global Business Network Forum and Island Investment Forum Aug 23–25 with 200+ participants, positioning islands as innovation hubs—not just climate-vulnerable states.

SIDS climate finance push: Maldives Environment Minister Ali Shareef told COP17 that island land degradation needs accessible funding beyond “drylands” models, calling out coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion and urging scaled blue-green finance for SIDS. Tourism & heritage support: A World Bank meeting in Colombo discussed backing the Colombo Fort tourism zone while preserving historic heritage, with interest in nature-based tourism and support across Sri Lanka’s sectors. Green tax update: Maldives collected USD 84.31m in green tax revenue in Jan–Jul, up 5.8%, with funds earmarked for coastal protection, conservation, clean-ups and water/sewerage projects. Plastic bag rules tightened: President Muizzu ratified amendments ending double taxation on plastic bags (including wholesale fees), alongside clearer waste management responsibilities and enforcement powers. Waste import ban comes into effect: The amended Waste Management Act also took effect, setting rules for waste centres and compliance monitoring. Health waste facility for Addu: Addu will get the Maldives’ first cytotoxic medical waste management facility to safely contain chemotherapy-related hazardous waste. Marine conservation event: Six Senses Laamu and MUI announced the return of the Laamafaru Festival on Sept 5, focused on protecting Laamu’s reefs, seagrass and mangroves. Open water swimming: Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026 wrapped up with 420+ swimmers, including para and Special Olympics participants, and added a 500m team relay. Tax on foreign contractors: Parliament passed an amendment doubling withholding tax on foreign construction contractors from 5% to 10% when paid by Maldivian businesses. Maritime investment lens: A new piece argues island connectivity depends on ports, where delays can disrupt essentials—highlighting why maritime investment must be island-aware.

SIDS Business Push: Maldives will host the SIDS Global Business Network Forum 2026 and the inaugural Island Investment Forum (Aug 23–25) with 200+ participants from 30+ countries, aiming to turn island innovation into investment-ready plans. Green Tax Update: Maldives Inland Revenue Authority reports green tax collections of USD 84.31m in Jan–Jul, up 5.8%, with funds earmarked for coastal protection, conservation, clean-ups, and water/sewerage projects. Waste Law Changes: President Muizzu ratified amendments to the Waste Management Act—ending double taxation on plastic bags sold at point of sale and abolishing the wholesale plastic bag fee—while tightening rules on waste systems, roles for regulators, and fines for harmful practices. Health Waste Facility for Addu: Addu will get the Maldives’ first cytotoxic medical waste management facility under an agreement with Addu Equatorial Hospital and WAMCO, targeting safer containment to prevent soil and water contamination. Ocean Conservation Event: Laamafaru Festival returns to Laamu Atoll on Sept 5 after a three-year break, with a full-day programme focused on protecting reefs, seagrass, and mangroves. Maritime Connectivity Lens (Op-ed): A new look at island shipping argues maritime investment must reflect how delays can cut off essentials like food and medicine for island communities.

SIDS Business Push: President Muizzu opened the SIDS Global Business Network Forum and Island Investment Forum in Malé, urging the world to see small island states as hubs of innovation and enterprise, with MSMEs and digital connectivity at the centre of growth. Green Tax Update: Maldives Inland Revenue Authority reports green tax revenue rose 5.8% to USD 84.31m in the first seven months, funding coastal protection, clean-ups, and water and sewerage projects. Waste Law Changes: Muizzu ratified the 1st Amendment to the Waste Management Act, ending double taxation on plastic bags by exempting point-of-sale fees and bundles over 50 bags; the importation of waste into the Maldives also took effect. Construction Tax Shift: Parliament doubled withholding tax on foreign construction contractors from 5% to 10%, aiming for a more equitable bidding environment. Ocean & Community: Laamafaru Festival returns to Laamu Atoll on Sept 5 with a renewed focus on ocean conservation, bringing schools and islands together after a three-year break. Health & Hazards: Addu will get the Maldives’ first cytotoxic medical waste management facility, targeting safe containment for chemotherapy-related waste. Local Feedback: MTCC opened a public survey on redeveloping Malé’s West Park fish market platform, feeding concerns into the Environmental Impact Assessment. Ocean Conservation Spotlight: Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 finalists highlight marine life and the urgent need to protect ocean biodiversity.

Economy & Governance: Former President Abdulla Yameen says the Maldives won’t see economic recovery in the rest of the current administration, warning dollar-rate problems can’t be fixed by banning talk about black-market prices. SIDS & Investment: The Maldives will host the SIDS Global Business Network Forum 2026 and the inaugural Island Investment Forum in Malé from Aug 23–25, with 200+ participants from 30+ countries. Marine & Waste Safety: Addu will get the Maldives’ first cytotoxic medical waste management facility under an agreement involving the Environment Ministry, Addu Equatorial Hospital and WAMCO. Urban Environment Planning: MTCC is seeking public feedback (Aug 18–31) on redeveloping the West Park fish market platform in Malé, with input set to feed into an Environmental Impact Assessment. Health Policy: The Health Ministry says the national tobacco control strategy is being built through stakeholder consultation and research, including the “Dhen Huttaalamaa” cessation push. Conservation Watch: Environment Minister visits Hanifaru Bay to review conservation efforts. Tourism Signals: A new “Noise-Free Nations” index ranks the Maldives among the world’s loudest destinations, based on factors tied to access to quieter areas.

SIDS Business Push: Maldives will host the 2026 SIDS Global Business Network Forum and the inaugural Island Investment Forum in Malé from Aug 23–25, with 200+ participants from 30+ countries, aiming to boost investment and business links for small island states. Cancer Waste Safety in Addu: A deal signed by the Environment Ministry, Addu Equatorial Hospital and WAMCO will create the Maldives’ first dedicated cytotoxic medical waste storage facility in Addu, with treatment and sealed HDPE-cement packaging expected to be operational within a year. Urban Environment Input: MTCC opened a public survey (Aug 18–31) for feedback on redeveloping the West Park fish market platform in Malé, feeding concerns into the Environmental Impact Assessment. Tobacco Control Strategy: Health Minister Geela Ali says the government’s tobacco cessation push is being shaped through stakeholder consultation and research, including a generational ban and free cessation services across islands. Fisheries Funding for Sustainability: The Aaruveri Matching Grant scheme (MVR 278m) launched under the TRANSFORM project will support energy efficiency, sustainable production, mariculture, value-added fish, and jobs for women and youth. Marine Conservation Spotlight: A tiger shark study highlights how these predators connect ocean basins, reinforcing the need to protect marine ecosystems.

SIDS Business Push: Maldives will host the SIDS Global Business Network Forum 2026 and the inaugural Island Investment Forum in Malé from Aug 23–25, with 200+ participants from 30+ countries, aiming to boost investment and development financing for small island states. Marine & Waste Safety: Addu City is set to get the Maldives’ first cytotoxic medical waste management facility under an agreement involving the Environment Ministry, Addu Equatorial Hospital and WAMCO—treating and safely storing chemotherapy waste to cut health and water contamination risks. Fisheries & Coastal Planning: MTCC opened a public survey (Aug 18–31) on redeveloping the West Park fish market platform in Malé, seeking community input for the Environmental Impact Assessment. Health Policy: Health Minister Geela Ali says the government’s tobacco control strategy is being built through stakeholder consultation and research, including a generational ban and expanded cessation services. Marine Life Spotlight: A new study highlights how tiger sharks can connect ocean basins, with researchers tracking their movements and habitat use. Conservation Watch: Environment Minister visited Hanifaru Bay to review conservation efforts.

SIDS Business Push: Maldives will host the SIDS Global Business Network Forum 2026 and the inaugural Island Investment Forum in Malé from Aug 23–25, with 200+ participants from 30+ countries, aiming to boost investment and business links for small island states. Toxic Waste Safety (Addu): A deal signed by the Environment Ministry, Addu Equatorial Hospital and WAMCO will set up the Maldives’ first cytotoxic medical waste storage facility in Hithadhoo, with treatment and sealed HDPE-cemented containment to cut health and water contamination risks. Fisheries & Marine Food Systems: MTCC opened a public survey (Aug 18–31) for feedback on redeveloping the West Park fish market platform in Malé, feeding concerns into an Environmental Impact Assessment. Tobacco Control: Health Minister Geela Ali says the government’s five-year tobacco control plan is being shaped through stakeholder consultation and research, including a generational ban and expanded cessation services across islands. Conservation Spotlight: Hanli Prinsloo returns to Baa Atoll in September for two freediving retreats, including a family programme at Avani+ Fares and an adults-focused Into the Blue retreat at NH Collection Maldives Reethi. Marine Life Research: A study on tiger sharks in the Eastern Central Atlantic highlights how these sharks may stay local, travel, and connect ocean ecosystems—useful for conservation thinking in the wider region. Youth & Food Security (Sri Lanka/Maldives links): FAO, Sri Lanka’s education ministry and HNB launched a World Food Day 2026 Youth Innovation Challenge to spur university-led solutions for agrifood systems.

Noise & Livability: A new global “Noise-Free Nations Index” puts Singapore and the Maldives among the world’s loudest destinations, linking the ranking to factors like transport intensity and limited rural/quiet areas. Hazardous Waste Safety (Addu): Addu City is moving ahead with the Maldives’ first specialised facility for cytotoxic medical waste storage and management, with construction expected to be completed within the year to reduce risks to workers and the environment. Marine & Coastal Planning: MTCC has opened a public survey (Aug 18–31) for feedback on redeveloping the West Park fish market platform in Malé, with inputs set to feed into the Environmental Impact Assessment. Tobacco Control: Health Minister Geela Ali says the government’s tobacco cessation strategy is being built through stakeholder consultation and research, including a five-year national campaign and expanded free cessation services. Fisheries Support: The “Aaruveri Matching Grant” scheme launched under the World Bank-funded TRANSFORM Project will back sustainable fisheries, energy efficiency, mariculture, and value-added production for SMEs and fishers. Conservation Spotlight: Tiger shark-focused diving continues to draw attention to Fuvahmulah’s conservation value, as a diver marks a 100th dive in the island’s famed waters.

Hazardous Waste Control in Addu: The Maldives is set to build its first dedicated facility for safe storage and containment of cytotoxic cancer treatment waste in Addu, with AEH, WAMCO and the Environment Ministry signing an agreement; the plan uses soda lime treatment, sealed HDPE drums and cement sealing, with construction in Hithadhoo expected to be operational within a year. Public Input for Marine-Sensitive Works: MTCC opened a public survey (Aug 18–31) on redeveloping the West Park fish market platform in Malé, feeding concerns into the Environmental Impact Assessment before piles and a piled foundation are installed. Tobacco Control, Backed by Research: Health Minister Geela Ali said the government’s tobacco cessation push is guided by consultation and technical research, including a generational ban and free cessation services, with a five-year national campaign now being shaped. Fisheries Funding for Sustainability: The “Aaruveri Matching Grant” scheme launched under the TRANSFORM project (MVR 278m) offers non-reimbursable grants for energy efficiency, sustainable production, mariculture, value-added fish and youth/women jobs. Marine Protection Check-In: Environment Minister Ali Shareef visited Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll to review conservation work in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Waste Services Go Digital: WAMCO launched an official mobile app for waste collection requests, disposal services and payments, aiming to make services easier across the country.

Marine Conservation: Climate and Environment Minister Ali Shareef visited Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll to review protection work in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, including ranger briefings and a look at the remote monitoring and surveillance station at B. Mendhoo. Waste & Health Safety: Maldives signed an agreement to build the country’s first dedicated storage facility for cancer treatment cytotoxic waste in Addu, with WAMCO tasked to maintain safe operations and construction planned to finish this year. Waste Services Upgrade: WAMCO launched an official mobile app for waste collection and disposal requests, bill payments, and case tracking across the Maldives’ cities and Greater Malé. Tourism & Connectivity: A Maldives aviation official warned that cutting domestic airfares alone won’t grow tourism unless flight frequency and reliable connections improve to fill beds in northern and southern atolls. Tourism Policy: Parliament approved raising withholding tax on payments to non-resident contractors from 5% to 10%, aiming for a more level playing field in construction tenders. Climate Threats: A new NTU study warns many Indo-Pacific coral reefs could “drown” under faster sea-level rise, threatening marine habitats and fisheries. Tourism Innovation: Resort Life Travel rolled out AI tools to help travellers plan Maldives trips using live resort data and guided itinerary building.

Humanitarian Protection: President Muizzu says the world is failing to protect aid workers, urging an immediate and permanent end to the Gaza war and respect for humanitarian principles under international law. Cancer Waste Safety: Maldives’ first dedicated cytotoxic cancer treatment waste storage facility is set for Addu, with WAMCO tasked to maintain operations and construction due to finish this year. Marine Conservation Check-in: Environment Minister Ali Shareef visited Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll to review conservation work in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, including monitoring efforts at protected areas. Waste Services Go Digital: WAMCO launched an official mobile app for waste collection requests, service registration, payments, and case tracking via eFaas. Tourism, But With Better Access: A Maldives aviation leader warns that cutting domestic fares alone won’t grow tourism—flight frequency and reliable connectivity are key to filling beds across atolls. Coral Reef Risk: A new NTU study warns most Indo-Pacific coral reefs could “drown” as sea levels rise faster than reefs can grow, threatening habitats and fisheries. Community & Skills: The Engineers Award 2026 nomination deadline was extended to Aug 27, with categories including sustainability and a Young Engineer track under 30. Marine Sports: Race kit collection begins for the Dhiraagu Malé Open (Aug 21-22), with open-water races and a new 500m team relay.

Marine Conservation: Climate Change, Environment and Energy Minister Ali Shareef visited Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll to review protection work for manta rays and whale sharks, including a look at the biosphere reserve’s remote monitoring and surveillance station. Waste & Plastics Policy: Parliament passed a Waste Management Act amendment that removes the MVR 2 fee on bulk packs with over 50 plastic bags, while also setting stronger waste-management standards and planning. Local Waste Services: WAMCO launched an official mobile app for waste collection requests, complaints, and payments—aimed at making services easier across the Maldives and Greater Malé. Tourism Access & Air Connectivity: A former Maldivian aviation leader says cutting domestic fares alone won’t grow tourism unless flight frequency and seamless connections improve to fill beds in the north and south. Coral & Climate Risk: A new study warns most Indo-Pacific coral reefs could “drown” as sea levels rise faster than corals can grow, threatening reef life and the habitats fish and communities rely on. Marine Economy: Fisheries designated 10 more mariculture zones to expand cultivation areas. Public Health: DOH reported another travel-related dengue case on Oʻahu, with mosquito-control steps urged. Research & Education: MNU opened its 9th Theveli International Conference with 330 research papers, including climate and environmental themes. Tax & Tourism Services: Parliament approved higher withholding tax on foreign construction contractors (5% to 10%), and the government is also pushing GST rules for foreign tour operators and offshore booking platforms. Wildlife & Community Tourism: MIB Guesthouse Awards 2026 opened nominations, including an island-level champion category that rewards efforts to preserve natural beauty and improve tourism safely. Sports for the Sea: Race kit collection begins for the Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026, which also aims to raise awareness about protecting the marine environment.