Maldives-India Trade Talks: The Maldives held stakeholder consultations on Technical Barriers to Trade as negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with India continue, focusing on product standards, testing/certification, labeling, and sanitary and phytosanitary rules for safer trade. Chinese Expertise for Agriculture: The Maldives is working with Chinese-backed scientific specialists to diagnose and treat tree diseases and invasive pests, including efforts to tackle the “Ruku Madi” coconut palm infestation. Tourism Revenue Boost: Diving schools are reported as the fastest-growing segment in Maldives tourism, with revenue up 47.7% in the latest period, alongside broader tourism output tax growth. Digital Payments Push: Bank of Maldives says the country is moving toward an “invisible” payments model over the next five years, while BML also runs a Mastercard debit card promotion offering MVR 100,000 in cash prizes. Connectivity Upgrade: Dhiraagu is offering eligible fibre broadband customers free upgrades to selected faster plans for up to two months. Hospitality & Brand Moves: Kandooma Maldives begins its “next chapter” transition under HPL Hotels & Resorts, with Andrew Drummond returning as GM, while Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa hosts Michelin-star Chef Fabrice Rosso for exclusive dining events. Conservation in Resorts: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru mark Plastic Free July with beach and reef cleans and shark awareness programming. Seaplane Regulation Impact: Seaplane takeoffs are grounded due to regulations, affecting operations.