Cost of Living & Politics: The MDP says it will protest in Malé on Aug 12 over rising prices of basics like baby formula, basmati rice, coffee powder, cooking oil and milk, blaming dollar shortages, inflation and port congestion that can raise freight and demurrage costs. Tourism Demand: New Ministry data shows resorts host about 73% of arrivals so far this year (902,228 of 1.2m), with July up 46% month-on-month to 184,735 visitors. Public Accountability: Parliament has ordered the ACC and Police to investigate illegal promotions at Fenaka Corporation in 2022–2023, with monthly progress updates required. Logistics & Trade: VIA hit a record for sea-to-air transshipment cargo (621 tonnes in a month). Meanwhile, 17 empty containers fell overboard from an MSS vessel near Colombo, prompting maritime warnings. Fisheries & Agriculture: MIFCO reports a fourfold jump in July fish purchases to 2,474.8 tons. Monsoon rains also damaged Kandoodhoo fields, with farmers seeking assistance. Digital Payments: Favara is now integrated with India’s UPI, enabling real-time person-to-person transfers from Malé to UPI-enabled Indian accounts via Bank of Maldives and Maldives Islamic Bank. Bilateral Commerce: The Maldives–Türkiye Preferential Trade Agreement has entered into force, cutting tariffs across 75 lines to boost Maldivian fisheries exports. Hospitality Jobs & Upgrades: Meyyafushi Maldives made senior HR and front-office appointments, while Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announced a resort-wide refurbishment.