Private companies won’t be excluded from govt projects, Saeed says

Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has said that private companies will not be excluded from participating in government projects, even when such projects are awarded to state-owned enterprises.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office on Monday, Saeed addressed concerns regarding the recent allocation of a number of government projects to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), Fenaka, and Road Development Corporation (RDC). These projects include the construction of hospitals and schools.

Responding to questions on whether this approach sidelines private contractors, the minister said that awarding projects to state-owned companies is not a new practice. He also noted that public in concerns remain about the delay in constructing the port and football stadium due to budget limitations.

“The President is working to fulfil his commitments. The perception that private businesses are being excluded from project awards as part of this process is not accurate,” Saeed said.

He further stated, “I don’t believe in disadvantaging anyone through this process.”

Saeed added that discussions are ongoing with industry bodies such as the Maldives Association of Construction Industry (MACI) and other relevant parties to address concerns from the private sector.

“I am personally meeting with business owners, particularly those from small enterprises, to hear their concerns and find ways to address them,” the minister said.