Economic Development, Trade and Transport Minister Mohamed Saeed has said the government intends to introduce more internationally recognized digital platforms and technologies to the Maldives, describing the recent launch of PayPal as part of a broader effort to transform the country’s economy through digitization.
The minister made the remarks during an information session held to familiarize the public with PayPal services following the platform’s official launch in the Maldives earlier this month.
PayPal, one of the world’s largest online payment platforms, was introduced to the Maldivian market on June 15 through a partnership involving the government, Ooredoo Maldives and PayPal. The service is being provided through Ooredoo’s m-Faisaa platform following the issuance of an inward remittance licence to Ooredoo last year.
Speaking at the event, Saeed described the arrival of PayPal as a landmark achievement for the country’s digital economy and said the government is committed to creating more opportunities for young Maldivians by attracting globally recognized digital services.
According to the minister, the introduction of PayPal represents more than just a new payment option, as it creates a direct connection between the Maldives and the global digital marketplace.
“PayPal is now part of the Maldivian economy,” Saeed said, noting that local users will be able to receive international payments more efficiently and participate in global online commerce with greater ease.
He emphasized that the government’s long-term vision extends beyond tourism, arguing that sustainable economic growth will require the development of new industries and sources of income.
The minister pointed to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to building a digital economy as a central pillar of the administration’s economic agenda. Under those plans, the government aims for the digital economy to contribute 15 percent of national economic output by 2030.
Officials have repeatedly highlighted digital transformation as a key strategy for creating employment opportunities, encouraging entrepreneurship and diversifying the economy.
Saeed also said confidence in the Maldives among international technology companies has increased in recent years, making it easier for the country to engage with leading global platforms and digital service providers.
The launch of PayPal is expected to particularly benefit freelancers, content creators, software developers, online businesses and small enterprises that rely on international transactions. For years, many Maldivians involved in digital work have faced challenges receiving payments from overseas clients due to the absence of globally accepted payment platforms.
Industry observers believe the service could help accelerate the growth of the country’s freelance and creative sectors by providing easier access to international markets.
PayPal is among the world’s most widely used online payment services, allowing users to send, receive and manage payments digitally. With the platform now available in the Maldives, local entrepreneurs are expected to gain greater opportunities to market products and services internationally and generate income from global customers.
As the government pushes ahead with its digital economy ambitions, officials say PayPal may be only the beginning, with further international platforms and technologies expected to be introduced in the years ahead.
