President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced tonight that from November 11 this year, the amount that can be paid through BML debit cards via POS abroad will be increased to USD 1,000.

Currently, the limit for debit card transactions abroad is USD 500.

Speaking at a meeting held in Muli during his current trip to M. Atoll, the President said that November 11 is BML's anniversary, and from that day, the limit for purchasing airline tickets and paying for hotels abroad using debit cards will be increased to USD 3,000.

"From that date, upon request to the bank, arrangements will also be made to pay hospital bills for medical treatment using debit cards," the President said.

The President further stated that these changes were decided as important steps to liberate Maldivians from the "bondage" of having to buy dollars at high prices in the black market.