This publication gives an overview of the Public Health Emergency Act 2020 published in the Government Gazette on 22 September 2020.

This publication gives an overview of the Sixth Amendment to the Employment Act that was published in the Government Gazette on 22 September 2020.

The Public Health Emergency Act was published on 22 September 2020 and sets out provisions with regard to special procedures needed to implement temporary measures and to facilitate smooth functioning of the state authorities in order to provide safety and assistance to the individuals, families and businesses during the period of state of public health emergency declared as a result of the ongoing the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

From 1 October 2020 onwards, payments made to the MIRA exceeding MVR 100,000 and USD 5,000 must be paid via MIRAconnect, or using the Vaarupay card and MRTGS.

On 3 September 2020, the Regulation on Registration of Fruit and Vegetable Vendors was published.

An appeal where the Supreme Court considered whether the respondent’s employment contract was terminated in accordance with the Employment Act.

On 31 August 2020, the Competition Act was published in the gazette which sets out the provisions to develop and maintain a competitive commercial environment for enterprises, and sets out restrictions, and prohibits business practices and arrangements which may have a negative impact on competition.

On 8 September 2020 the Maldives Chartered Accountants Act was published, introducing a new independent institution - The Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Maldives. The Act empowers the governing council of the institute to regulate, and develop the field of chartered accountancy in the Maldives.

On 31 August 2020, the Consumer Protection Act was published, which sets out the rights and protections granted to consumers, and prescribes duties and responsibilities of suppliers of goods and services in the Maldives.