Digital Payments: The Maldives Monetary Authority says the Favara instant-payment system is now integrated with India’s UPI, enabling real-time person-to-person transfers from the Maldives to UPI-enabled Indian bank accounts via Bank of Maldives and Maldives Islamic Bank. Trade & Exports: A Maldives–Türkiye Preferential Trade Agreement entered into force, with tariff concessions across 75 lines to boost Maldivian fisheries exports and improve access to Turkish goods. Agribusiness Linkages: APEDA facilitated the first air shipment of Karnataka Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives, aiming to open new overseas market opportunities for late-season varieties. Banking Leadership: Bank of Maldives CEO Mohamed Shareef was appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association, the first Maldivian to lead the group. Fisheries Performance: MIFCO reports a fourfold jump in July fish purchases to 2,474.8 tons, with payments totalling MVR 49.76m. Aviation & Compliance: MACL introduced mandatory Harbour Portal registration for vessels using the Velana Airport jetty/lagoon area. Public Health: HPA issued an advisory for returning Umrah pilgrims, urging medical attention for respiratory symptoms within 14 days and warning against self-medicating with antibiotics. Politics & Economy: The MDP filed a no-confidence motion against Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, citing dollar shortages and port bottlenecks. Tourism & Jobs: Meyyafushi Maldives appointed Asel Sartbaeva as Assistant Director of Sales and Hassan Afeef Ahmed as Front Office Manager. Local Business Events: Kulhudhuffushi will host the 2026 Island Carnival (Sept 30–Oct 4).