The Government of Maldives has outlined a renewed economic direction for 2026, with the Cabinet establishing new benchmarks aimed at strengthening productivity and driving sustainable growth across key sectors of the economy. The announcement was made by the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, during the 63rd anniversary celebration of the national radio service, Dhivehiraajjeyge Adu, where he highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing national development priorities through measurable performance standards and institutional reform.
Minister Saeed stated that 2026 has been designated as the “Year of Maldives’ Productivity,” reflecting a focused national effort to accelerate progress toward long-term economic and social objectives. He emphasised that achieving developed-nation status by 2040 will require sustained annual per capita economic growth of between five and six percent, underpinned by improved efficiency, innovation, and accountability across both public and private sectors. To support this goal, the government plans to introduce sector-specific benchmarks that encourage higher performance while strengthening national institutions to better engage youth and the wider workforce in economic transformation.
Highlighting the importance of information and public engagement, the Minister underscored the role of responsible media in shaping national outlook and fostering a shared vision for development. He noted that accurate, timely, and credible communication is essential to building public confidence, guiding informed decision-making, and supporting collective efforts toward a fully developed Maldives that is resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive.
Echoing these views, Public Service Media Managing Director Ahmed Shakeeb expressed confidence in the future growth of the national broadcaster, citing the government’s focus on modernising media institutions. He commended President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to strengthening public service media as a cornerstone of national development, while also calling for unity in preserving Maldivian identity and values amid ongoing transformation.
The anniversary celebrations also served as a platform to recognise emerging talent and public engagement, with awards presented to winners of the Children’s News Reading Competition and the Poetry Competition, alongside the announcement of the audience’s favourite radio presenter. The event reflected the enduring role of Dhivehiraajjeyge Adu in national life, as well as the government’s broader vision of aligning media, youth development, and economic productivity to support the Maldives’ long-term growth agenda.
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