ECONOMYNEXT – A report by the Sri Lanka – Maldives Business Council (SLMLBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, after a recent business promotion mission, has highlighted several opportunities for collaboration including ferry connections.
The Delegation Report highlighted “several promising opportunities for collaboration identified during meetings with key ministries in the Maldives”, according to a statement.
“Discussions with the Ministry of Tourism focused on fostering eco-tourism, MICE projects, and dual-destination promotions, with potential investments in guest houses, and wellness tourism.”
The Male City Mayor’s Office “discussed opportunities for waste management and urban cleanliness, emphasising recycling, small-scale incineration, and leveraging economies of scale.”
Meetings with the Ministry of Economic Development and the Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works, emphasised infrastructure, sustainable island development, and privatising waste management.
Discussions with Maldives Ports Limited revealed opportunities to expand trade, improve logistical efficiency, and explore cost-effective transportation methods, such as wooden boat services and ferry connections.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare included proposals for investments in agriculture, testing facilities, and rehabilitation of coconut trees, while raising awareness about sustainable farming practices.
“These discussions underscored the importance of open communication, regulatory frameworks, and innovative solutions to enhance trade and business ties between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.”
The Delegation Report highlighted the key outcomes of high-level discussions held during the mission with seven critical Maldivian ministries and stakeholders, including Maldives Ports Limited, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Tourism, the Malé City Mayor’s Office, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, and the Ministry of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works.
The report detailed numerous opportunities for Sri Lankan companies in sectors such as logistics, tourism, agriculture, and construction. It also offered actionable insights for fostering stronger trade and investment partnerships between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The SLMLBC also announced its upcoming CSR initiative, which will provide free spectacles and hearing aids to residents of Faresmaathoda Island in the Maldives, located 445 km from Malé City.
The project is supported by Wickramarachchi Opticians, Aitken Spence Travels, Ocean Trade Logistics, Milo, Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services, and ENVIROMEC International (Pvt) Ltd. (Colombo/Jan14/2025)
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