The United States Embassy has unveiled plans to establish an American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in the Maldives, marking a significant step towards strengthening bilateral business relations between the two countries. The initiative was announced during the Embassy’s Independence Day reception in Malé on August 13, bringing together diplomats, government officials, and business leaders.
US Ambassador Hugo Yon highlighted the strategic importance of the new chamber, describing it as a critical bridge between American and Maldivian businesses. “AmCham Maldives will provide essential resources, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance aligned with the government’s priorities in key sectors like tourism, renewable energy, and sustainable development,” Ambassador Yon explained.
The proposed AmCham chapter aims to deliver comprehensive support for businesses operating in the Maldives through multiple strategic approaches. These include providing advocacy services, offering market insights, and developing professional development programs that can benefit both local and international enterprises.
A unique aspect of the initiative is its potential to offer advisory input to the Maldivian government on economic policy, leveraging the extensive experience of the global AmCham network, which is present in over 100 countries worldwide.
Sandun Hapugoda, Country Manager of Mastercard Sri Lanka & Maldives and a working group member, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. “We encourage all stakeholders to get involved in this exciting venture,” Hapugoda stated, inviting businesses to participate in the emerging chamber.
The timing of the announcement is particularly significant as the Maldives seeks to attract foreign investment to support post-pandemic economic recovery and address ongoing climate challenges. By creating AmCham, the country hopes to attract more US-based firms and expand economic opportunities beyond the traditional luxury tourism sector.
While specific details about the chamber’s structure, membership criteria, and launch timeline are still being finalized, the working group has committed to providing regular updates. Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to contact the working group or reach out directly to the US Embassy for more information.
This initiative represents a promising development in economic diplomacy, potentially opening new channels for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mutual economic growth between the United States and the Maldives.
