Setting Up
Investment Windows
There are a variety of ways for foreign investors to engage with the Maldives' dynamic economy. These opportunities range from standard foreign direct investments to innovative private sector proposals and participation in Special Economic Zones.
Foreign Direct Investments
Standard Regime: Under the Foreign Investment Act, foreign investors can enter various sectors based on the Foreign Direct Investment Policy of the Maldives. This policy outlines foreign shareholding limits and minimum investment requirements. While certain sectors allow up to 100% foreign ownership, others require joint ventures with Maldivian partners.
Private Sector Initiated Proposals
Investor-Initiated Projects: The Private Sector Initiated Proposals framework allows investors to submit their own project proposals for government consideration. After submission and compliance checks, projects are evaluated for alignment with strategic priorities, approved by the Economic Council of the Cabinet, and finalized through a government agreement.
Special Economic Zones
SEZ Regime: The Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act facilitates large-scale investments and economic activities permitted in SEZs have been categorised into two types: Investments of not less than 100 million US dollars, and sustainable township development projects requiring investments of not less than 500 million US dollars. Strategic investment areas to be considered among investment of not less than 100 million US dollars include:
- Export focused manufacturing activities
- Transshipment ports, international logistics services, ports, airports, bulk breaking, bunkering and docking services
- Universities, tertiary hospitals, super specialist hospitals, and establishment of world-class research facilities.
- Information Communications Technology (ICT) parks and ancillary facilities related to ICT
- International financial services and international trade hubs
- Renewable energy
- Projects that introduce new technologies to the Maldives
- Projects focused on enhancing food security
- Gas exploration
