The Bank of Maldives (BML) has denied rumors circulating on social media that online shopping platforms Amazon and AliExpress have been blocked from card transactions.

In a statement, BML confirmed that no restrictions have been placed on these websites. The bank explained that most failed transactions occur because customers have exceeded their monthly foreign transaction limits or card spending limits.

According to BML, more than 58,000 transactions were made on Amazon and AliExpress between January 2025 and January 2026, totaling USD 2.3 million.

The bank noted a significant rise in the use of debit and credit cards for business purposes. It also observed that some customers attempt transactions that exceed their declared income. BML encouraged customers importing goods or making large payments to use its business banking services, which are designed to facilitate such transactions with proper documentation.

Card transaction volumes have increased steadily:

  • 2023: USD 311 million
  • 2024: USD 389 million
  • 2025: USD 524 million
  • 2026 (through January): USD 59 million

BML also highlighted existing limits. Since November 11, 2025, debit cards for medical and travel purposes have been capped at USD 3,000 per month, while foreign ATM/POS transactions are limited to USD 1,000 per month.

The bank stated that sufficient US dollars are being allocated for public use but warned that customers using personal cards for business transactions may face difficulties due to these limits.