Maldives Expo 2026 will introduce a dedicated International District to showcase overseas businesses and technological innovations, while participation in the expo’s competition will remain exclusively reserved for Maldivians, the Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade has announced.
The exhibition will feature seven districts this year, including two new additions aimed at broadening opportunities for businesses and creators. The Visitor Economy District will focus on enterprises operating within the Maldives’ tourism industry, while the International District will provide a platform for foreign companies to present their products and innovations.
Speaking on PSM News’ Maldives Expo 2026 countdown programme, State Minister for Economic Development, Transport and Trade Abdulla Shiyaz said international companies had also participated in last year’s exhibition. However, organisers have now introduced a separate district to create stronger links between local creators and overseas businesses.
Shiyaz explained that the initiative is intended to promote Maldivian creativity, encourage innovation and give local participants greater access to international expertise and opportunities.
He emphasised the importance of enabling Maldivians to develop new ideas while establishing connections with international creators and companies that could help turn those ideas into practical products and services.
Describing the International District as a bridge between local and foreign creators, the State Minister said building such relationships would help Maldivian innovators obtain the support and resources needed to develop their work further.
Companies involved in major infrastructure development in the Maldives are expected to participate in the district, with businesses from India, China and the United Arab Emirates among those set to showcase their offerings.
The exhibition will also place emphasis on emerging technologies and new innovations, which organisers believe could contribute to the development of the Maldives’ digital and technology sectors.
Despite the participation of foreign companies, Shiyaz clarified that international exhibitors would not be permitted to compete in the expo’s competition, as the organisers intend to keep the contest exclusively for Maldivians.
The new district is therefore designed to combine international exposure with opportunities for local talent, allowing Maldivian creators to learn from overseas businesses while retaining a competition platform dedicated to homegrown innovation.
