President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has closed 56 foreign-operated businesses in the past three weeks, as part of a nationwide campaign to curb illegal business activities.
The President shared the update during a community meeting with residents of Hulhumalé Phase II, where he highlighted the growing public concern over unchecked illegal expatriate operations.
Calling the issue a “major grievance consistently raised by the public,” President Muizzu said enforcement efforts have already accelerated, with more action expected in the coming weeks. He assured residents that the government is committed to resolving the matter in a manner that meets public expectations and protects the integrity of the local business environment.
As part of the crackdown, the government recently established a special multi-agency task force — the National Task Force on Combating Illegal Expatriate Operations and Businesses. The task force brings together the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, the Maldives Police Service, and Maldives Immigration.
Officials say the task force is conducting active investigations across the country, targeting businesses suspected of operating unlawfully. Those found in violation of Maldivian regulations are being suspended or shut down accordingly.
The President reiterated that the initiative is a key component of the administration’s broader effort to ensure fairness for local entrepreneurs and uphold the rule of law within the commercial sector.
