President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has declared a decisive national operation to shut down illegal foreign-run businesses and deport violators, reinforcing his administration’s pledge to safeguard the rights of Maldivian citizens and protect the nation’s economy.
Speaking to residents of F. Nilandhoo during his ongoing tour of seven atolls, the President underscored that unlawful enterprises run by foreigners had long undermined local livelihoods. He said the government will now act swiftly to close these establishments and expel those responsible.
“This problem has persisted for years without a real solution. Previous governments looked the other way. But today, we have started the crucial work of identifying foreigners in the Maldives — who they are, where they are, and whether they are here legally,” President Muizzu stressed.
Biometric Tracking and Deportations
The President revealed that his administration has already registered 178,982 foreign nationals, with biometric data including full fingerprint records, bringing transparency to a system that had been left unchecked for decades. Current estimates suggest that over 200,000 foreigners reside in the country.
Since launching this initiative, the government has deported 8,709 individuals, a sharp contrast to the nominal deportations of previous years. The President emphasized that these measures ensure deported individuals cannot easily return.
Protecting Local Businesses
Dr. Muizzu highlighted the growing encroachment of foreigners into small-scale businesses — from shops and cafés to informal stalls — particularly in Malé, where the practice has spread openly and unchecked. He condemned how such activities have placed undue pressure on Maldivian entrepreneurs, warning that this will no longer be tolerated.
National Operation Begins Tomorrow
The President announced that starting tomorrow, a nationwide operation will commence to identify and shut down illegal foreign-operated businesses across all islands. The operation will be extensive in Malé and other urban hubs, ensuring swift closures and deportations.
He reiterated that his administration’s broader vision for national development includes not only advancing infrastructure and social programs but also taking bold steps to stabilize the economy and protect Maldivian sovereignty.
With this new crackdown, the Muizzu administration positions itself as the first government to confront head-on a challenge that has been ignored for decades, taking action where others failed to deliver.
