SRI LANKA AND MALDIVES DEEPEN ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP AT COLOMBO BUSINESS FORUM

Sri Lanka and the Maldives reaffirmed their economic partnership at the Colombo Business Forum, with leaders highlighting reforms, resilience, and shared opportunities. Over 400 delegates explored collaboration in tourism, fisheries, energy, and digital services. Bilateral trade reached US$137 million in 2025, underscoring untapped potential for deeper regional integration.

At the Maldives-Sri Lanka Business Forum in Colombo, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives and Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya of Sri Lanka reaffirmed the enduring economic and historical ties between the two nations. Addressing over 400 business leaders, investors, and policymakers, both leaders underscored a shared vision for deeper regional cooperation and commercial integration.  

President Muizzu described the Maldives as “a nation on the rise”, pointing to reforms that encourage private sector-led growth, investment, and entrepreneurship. He highlighted the introduction of a modernised foreign investment framework and revised investor entry requirements designed to boost transparency and investor confidence.  

Prime Minister Amarasuriya emphasised Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery and structural reforms, noting that the country is steadily building a more resilient and stable foundation. She expressed gratitude for the Maldives’ support following Cyclone Ditwah, calling it a testament to the friendship between the two nations.  

Tourism, fisheries, food production, logistics, renewable energy, digital services, and financial services were identified as priority sectors for collaboration. Bilateral trade reached US$137 million in 2025, though both leaders acknowledged the potential for far greater expansion.  

The forum spotlighted a collective ambition to transform historical ties into stronger commercial integration, positioning Sri Lanka and the Maldives as key partners in shaping long-term regional cooperation across the Indian Ocean.