Male' City Council has revealed its decision to reduce the rent of government lands leased for private businesses and for stands in local markets by 30%.
At a press conference, Mayor of Male' City Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said the rent was reduced due to the financial difficulties businesses have been facing over the COVID-19 pandemic. The city council has decided to reduce rent by 30% for lands leased to businesses, stands in local markets, cafés, and restaurants in the carnival area, as well as businesses in other vacant lands, he said.
Furthermore, Mayor Muizzu said the pandemic has caused the closure of some businesses, which impacts all citizens, and that the city council's decision is a way to prevent businesses from going bankrupt and providing them some leeway.
The city council has also decided to reduce the fee for parking zones provided to private cars, from USD 195 to USD 97, as well as reduce the fee for parking lots provided to taxis, from USD 195 to USD 49.