United States and Maldives Strengthen Economic Ties at 3rd TIFA Council Meeting

Delegations from the governments of the United States and the Republic of Maldives convened on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., for the 3rd meeting of the United States-Maldives Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council.

The meeting was co-chaired by Maldivian Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed and Brendan Lynch, Assistant United States Trade Representative (AUSTR) for South and Central Asia. The session saw wide interagency representation from both governments.

Minister Saeed and AUSTR Lynch expressed their ambition to deepen economic relations, highlighting the critical role of bilateral engagement in diversifying trade and investment ties for inclusive, sustainable growth. The Maldivian delegation presented the economic vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration and sought support from the U.S. government. Both sides noted progress on intellectual property protection and enforcement and emphasized the importance of regulatory transparency to enhance the investment climate.

The Maldivian delegation emphasized support for digital content creators, artists, and entrepreneurs, and highlighted investment opportunities in the financial, maritime, real estate, and tourism sectors. Both delegations committed to increasing cooperation on worker rights, digital trade, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that enhanced bilateral trade and investment benefit workers and businesses of all sizes in both countries.

Discussions also covered the Maldives’ ongoing economic reforms and efforts to improve the business climate to boost trade and incentivize investment. The U.S. delegation welcomed engagement with the Maldives on advancing worker-centered trade, including the implementation of its recently ratified Industrial Relations Act and Occupational Safety and Health Act, and advancing labor rights for migrant workers. The U.S. congratulated the Maldives on implementing most of its commitments under the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade Facilitation and encouraged collaboration with donors, including the United States, on implementing the remaining provisions.

Both nations committed to intensify productive engagement under the TIFA to further strengthen bilateral economic ties for mutual benefit.