MMA Unveils National Strategy for Inclusive and Sustainable Finance

The Maldives has set a new direction for its financial sector with the launch of two national frameworks aimed at expanding access to finance and aligning capital with long-term sustainability goals, positioning the sector as a key driver of inclusive economic growth and resilience.

The Maldives Monetary Authority on Thursday unveiled the National Financial Inclusion Strategy and the National Sustainable Finance Framework at a high-level ceremony inaugurated by Mohamed Muizzu. The event was attended by senior government officials, leaders of financial institutions, development partners, and stakeholders from across the financial sector.

The launch marks a significant step in the Maldives’ financial sector development agenda, reflecting a coordinated national effort to build a system that is inclusive, resilient, and aligned with the country’s development and climate priorities. Together, the two frameworks are designed to strengthen access to finance, mobilize sustainable capital, and support long-term, broad-based economic growth.

The National Financial Inclusion Strategy provides a comprehensive roadmap to expand both access to and usage of financial services across the country. Recognizing that inclusion extends beyond availability, the strategy focuses on empowering individuals and businesses with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to participate meaningfully in the financial system. Particular attention is given to addressing gaps affecting women, youth, the elderly, and micro, small, and medium enterprises, alongside measures to strengthen financial literacy and consumer protection.

Complementing this, the National Sustainable Finance Framework sets out a structured approach to channel finance toward climate action and sustainable development. The framework aims to align the financial sector with national resilience objectives by encouraging the development of green, social, and sustainability-linked financial products, strengthening enabling regulations, and guiding capital toward priority areas such as climate adaptation, renewable energy, sustainable housing, and resilient infrastructure.

Speaking at the ceremony, MMA Governor Ahmed Munawar said the initiatives represent an important evolution in the Authority’s mandate, moving beyond stability to position the financial sector as an enabler of sustained prosperity. He emphasized that expanding financial inclusion while aligning finance with sustainability would strengthen growth, resilience, and opportunity across the Maldives.

The Governor also highlighted that the success of both frameworks will depend on strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as continued engagement with development partners. The MMA expressed its appreciation to government ministries, financial institutions, and international partners for their contributions, and acknowledged the leadership of the National Financial Inclusion Steering Committee and the technical committees whose expertise helped shape the strategies.

With the introduction of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy and the National Sustainable Finance Framework, the Maldives takes a decisive step toward building a financial system that supports inclusive growth, promotes sustainability, and enhances economic resilience for generations to come.