U.S. Embassy and Maldives Customs Join Forces to Enhance Trade Security

The U.S. Embassy in the Maldives has partnered with the Maldives Customs Service to bring together government agencies and international experts to examine key aspects of trade security and discuss how secure trade practices can attract business and investment.

The event, which took place on October 7th and 8th, featured a keynote address by Major General Ibrahim Hilmy of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). Trade regulators from the United Arab Emirates and the Philippines also presented their national systems for managing the trade and transshipment of strategic items during the event.

“These items are sensitive ‘dual use’ goods or technologies that can be used for both commercial and military purposes, requiring heightened protections,” stated the U.S. Embassy.

U.S. Ambassador Hugo Yon highlighted the advantages of managing strategic trade securely, stating, “There are economic benefits to creating a secure trading environment that earns the trust of exporting and importing countries, as well as innovative companies supplying high-tech goods. Research shows that protecting shipments of sensitive items sends a positive signal and corresponds with increased foreign direct investment.”

The forum also featured insights from Singapore’s Centre for Trade Excellence, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Maldives Monetary Authority. These experts offered valuable strategies for coordinating efforts across government and engaging with industry to mitigate security and reputational risks in today’s global supply chains.

The event was sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Export Control and Border Security (EXBS) Program, which works with global partners to enhance strategic trade management, including legal frameworks, licensing, customs enforcement, and border security.