Tourism & Connectivity: Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) and CROSSROADS Maldives signed the host property agreement for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026, kicking off preparations to bring the regional ceremony to the Maldives. Tourism Performance: VMC’s AGM reported its strongest financial performance in eight years, with 2025 self-generated income of MVR 32.54m and tourism receipts topping USD 5.57b. Direct Air Boost: Maldives–Australia direct flights are already lifting arrivals, with 20,878 Australians visiting as of 6 June (+16%), after the Malé–Melbourne route launch. Cruise Growth: The Maldives is set to welcome its first Chinese cruise ship on 23 June, with Maya saying cruise tourism continues to expand. Industry Skills: LUX* South Ari Atoll, with MATI, hosted students for a career exploration programme covering culinary, service and housekeeping experiences. Sustainability in Action: Multiple resorts marked World Environment Day and World Ocean Day with tree planting, reef clean-ups and coral planting, including Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, NH Maldives Kuda Rah, and Milaidhoo. Finance & Governance: Hassan Zareer was appointed Maldives Finance Minister following Moosa Zameer’s resignation. Ocean Economy: Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam said ocean research and marine resource identification are central to diversifying the economy.