Bank of Maldives Denies Blocking Amazon and AliExpress Transactions

The Bank of Maldives (BML) has issued a formal clarification denying widespread rumours circulating on social media claiming that it has blocked international e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and AliExpress. 

A senior bank official confirmed that there are no restrictions in place on card transactions with these platforms, emphasising that the rumours are false and have caused unnecessary concern among customers. The bank clarified that transaction failures are typically due to customers exceeding their individual card limits, not because of any site-specific blocks. BML stressed that it continues to support Maldivian customers in making overseas purchases and has facilitated hundreds of millions of dollars in international transactions over the past three years.

Between January 1 and February 21, 2026, BML cardholders conducted 58,000 transactions on Amazon and AliExpress alone, totaling USD 2.33 million. These figures, released by the bank, underscore the continued access customers have to global e-commerce platforms. The bank noted a growing trend of individuals using personal debit and credit cards for business-related imports and commercial purchases. 

However, when transaction amounts surpass the income profile declared to the bank or exceed assigned limits, such payments may be declined as a precautionary measure in line with financial compliance protocols.

To better support customers engaged in commercial activities, BML urged individuals to transition to its dedicated business banking solutions, which are designed to accommodate high-value transactions and provide necessary documentation for the import of goods. The bank reiterated its commitment to facilitating overseas spending, particularly for essential needs such as medical treatment, airline tickets, and accommodation. 

In fact, BML has seen a steady rise in international transaction volumes—USD 311 million in 2023, USD 389 million in 2024, and USD 524 million in 2025, with USD 59 million already recorded in the first month of 2026. Around 66 percent of these transactions were conducted via e-commerce websites.

Further reinforcing its support, BML recently increased overseas transaction limits on credit cards effective at the start of February. Additionally, since November 11 last year, the bank has offered debit cardholders a monthly limit of up to USD 3,000 for overseas transactions related to travel and medical purposes, with a USD 1,000 cap for card-present (POS) transactions abroad. 

"Our customers are well-supported when traveling or shopping internationally for personal needs," said the official. "However, for larger-scale commercial activity, we strongly recommend utilising our business banking services to avoid disruptions."