Economy of Maldives
An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Economic Domains
Growth & Output
Trade & Finance
Labor & Income
Economic Snapshot Overview
A summary of key economic indicators for Maldives
- The economic architecture of Maldives is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $6.59B2023. This places it as the 155th largest economy out of 192 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $12.53K2023, while its GDP adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is estimated at $13.01B, offering a clearer picture of the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy demonstrates solid, consistent growth, expanding at a healthy rate of 4.7%2023, accompanied by a stable price environment, with inflation (CPI) contained at 1.4%.2024
- On the global stage, Maldives's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of international and domestic factors. The country exhibits a balanced trade profile, with exports making up 74.4% of GDP and imports 75.7%2023. The investment climate attracts significant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with inflows constituting 11.63% of the economy2023. This performance positions the country 12th globally out of 187 nations, confirming its status as a competitive destination for foreign capital. Furthermore, personal remittances from its diaspora are a vital component of the economy, amounting to a substantial $5.38M annually2023. Fiscal capacity is adequate, with tax collections representing 19.5% of GDP, supporting core state functions.2021
- The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $11,0702023, ranking the nation 73rd out of 191. This figure provides a comprehensive measure of the average income per person, reflecting the nation's overall economic well-being. The labor market remains stable, with an unemployment rate of 4.6%.2024A key feature of the workforce is its concentration in the services sector, which accounts for 67.3% of total employment2023. Despite its economic standing, poverty remains a salient issue, with 5.4% of the population living below the national poverty line2019. The country achieves a relatively equitable distribution of income, reflected in a low Gini index of 29.3.2019
- In the environmental and energy sectors, the nation's policies and outcomes reflect its developmental priorities. Energy consumption per capita stands at 921.477 kg of oil equivalent2007, a metric that often correlates with industrial activity and living standards. The energy portfolio remains heavily dependent on conventional sources, with renewables contributing a modest 1.2%2022. This commitment places it 19th among 191 countries, highlighting its relative progress in decarbonization. Total greenhouse gas emissions were last recorded at 3.09K tonnes of CO2 equivalent2023, a key factor in its national climate strategy and international obligations.
Key Economic Insights
Macroeconomic Health
The economy exhibits robust health, characterized by a "Goldilocks" scenario of strong growth, low inflation, and low unemployment.
Trade & Investment Profile
A deeply globalized, export-powerhouse economy that is highly attractive to foreign capital, making it vulnerable but adaptive to global shifts.
Social Equity & Distribution
The nation demonstrates effective wealth distribution, with low poverty and relatively equitable income sharing contributing to social stability.
Energy & Sustainability
A heavy dependence on fossil fuels poses significant long-term risks, including exposure to price volatility, energy insecurity, and climate change impacts.
More About This Country
Neighbors & Regional Peers
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.