MALE, Oct. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Maldives expects its economy to grow between 3.9 percent and 6.8 percent in 2027, following a sharp slowdown this year, Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Hassan Zareer said while presenting the proposed 2027 state budget to Parliament.
Zareer said on Thursday that the economy expanded by 6.3 percent in 2025, while the government had initially projected 5.3 percent growth for 2026. However, economic challenges this year prompted the ministry to revise the 2026 growth forecast down to between 0.6 percent and 1.8 percent.
He said the proposed budget focuses on economic stability, fiscal and debt sustainability, and investments aimed at improving living standards and public services.
The ministry said the budget is intended to strengthen the economy's foundations and create more opportunities for people across the island nation. ■