Senior Government officials and tourism industry leaders have met to discuss the sector’s challenges and agree on priorities for increasing tourist arrivals and achieving the Maldives’ 2027 tourism targets. The meeting forms part of ongoing industry dialogue as preparations advance for Visit Maldives Year 2027.
Four Cabinet members attended the discussions: Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen, Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Hassan Zareer, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed, and Attorney General Ahmed Usham. Commissioner General of Taxation Fathmath Azeema also participated, bringing together senior representatives responsible for tourism, economic policy, public finance, legal affairs and taxation.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, the discussions focused on increasing visitor arrivals, meeting the targets established for 2027 and addressing challenges currently facing the industry. The engagement provided a platform for tourism leaders to present their recommendations directly to the relevant Government authorities.
The ministry said key goals were agreed upon based on industry recommendations and assured stakeholders of continued Government support. Although specific measures were not detailed, the discussions highlighted the importance of incorporating industry perspectives into efforts to strengthen tourism performance.
The meeting took place amid concerns from tourism stakeholders over a recent amendment to the Goods and Services Tax Act. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has decided to review the amendment following the concerns raised by the industry. The Government has not yet announced what changes, if any, will result from that review.
The review provides an opportunity to consider stakeholder feedback alongside the Government’s wider policy objectives. Continued consultation will be important as businesses assess the implications of the amendment and await further clarity on the outcome.
The discussions also come as the Maldives prepares for a dedicated year of destination promotion. President Muizzu has designated 2027 as Visit Maldives Year, and the official promotional campaign has already been launched. The Government has said the national campaign will include participation from all, reflecting an inclusive approach to promoting the destination.
Cooperation between public institutions and tourism businesses will be important in translating the campaign into visitor interest and progress towards the country’s targets. The meeting connects those promotional ambitions with discussions about the operating conditions and practical challenges affecting the sector.
By agreeing on goals informed by industry recommendations and maintaining dialogue on policy concerns, the Government and tourism leaders are working towards a coordinated approach to the year ahead. Further announcements on the GST review and implementation of the agreed priorities will provide greater clarity as preparations for Visit Maldives Year 2027 continue.
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