The 10th SIDS Global Business Network Forum has officially concluded in the Maldives, bringing to a successful close an international gathering focused on strengthening economic resilience, sustainable investment and private-sector cooperation among Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Hosted at Barceló Nasandhura in Malé, the forum welcomed more than 200 delegates representing over 30 countries. The diverse group of participants included small and medium-sized business owners, investors, trade and business associations, academics and representatives of civil society, creating an important platform for exchanging ideas and developing partnerships to address the distinctive economic and development challenges faced by island nations.
The forum provided participants with an opportunity to explore practical approaches to expanding investment, improving access to finance and supporting sustainable economic growth across SIDS economies. With small island states often facing geographical isolation, limited domestic markets, higher transportation and infrastructure costs and greater exposure to global economic and environmental pressures, discussions placed particular emphasis on attracting investment that supports long-term resilience and creates meaningful opportunities for businesses and communities.
Throughout the programme, delegates participated in five panel discussions covering key areas affecting the economic future of SIDS. The forum also featured an investment showcase, dedicated networking meetings and an SME marketplace, allowing entrepreneurs and businesses to present their products, services and investment potential to an international audience. These engagements provided valuable opportunities for business leaders, investors and development partners to establish connections and examine potential areas of cooperation.
A central focus of the discussions was the need to mobilise greater financial resources for Small Island Developing States while strengthening international recognition of their unique development circumstances. Participants examined ways of improving access to sustainable financing, encouraging private-sector participation and establishing stronger partnerships capable of supporting economic diversification, innovation and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises.
The 10th edition of the forum carries additional significance as SIDS countries advance implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, known as ABAS, which was adopted in 2024 as a 10-year strategic framework for sustainable development and economic resilience. The framework outlines priorities for addressing structural vulnerabilities while strengthening the capacity of island economies to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth.
The successful hosting of the international forum also reflects the Maldives’ growing role in advancing discussions concerning the economic priorities of Small Island Developing States. Maldivian authorities highlighted that hosting the gathering supports President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s policy of strengthening international cooperation and building closer partnerships among island nations.
The forum builds on the international momentum created through the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States held in 2024, where governments and development partners renewed their commitment to addressing the particular challenges confronting SIDS. By hosting the Global Business Network Forum, the Maldives has further strengthened its engagement with governments, businesses, investors and development institutions working to transform those commitments into practical economic opportunities.
For the Maldives, an economy with strong connections to international tourism, trade and investment, hosting more than 200 international delegates also demonstrated the country’s capacity to accommodate major global business and development gatherings. Barceló Nasandhura provided the setting for the multi-day programme, offering delegates a modern hospitality environment in the capital while facilitating high-level discussions, networking sessions and business engagements.
The conclusion of the 10th SIDS Global Business Network Forum reinforces the Maldives’ commitment to strengthening cooperation among Small Island Developing States while promoting greater international investment, private-sector engagement and financial partnerships. The gathering has further positioned the country as an active contributor to global discussions on building stronger, more resilient and economically sustainable island economies.
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