Minister of Tourism Abdulla Mausoom has stated the aim is to provide the benefits of the tourism industry to the public.
Speaking to PSM News, the tourism minister said that part of the policy is to create a tourism localisation and diversification unit in order for citizens to receive the benefits of the Maldives tourism sector. Minister Mausoom said the government is in discussions with the newly elected councillors to develop the local tourism sector. He said the government has already met with the mayors and presidents of the atoll councils and is now meeting with parliamentarians and presidents of island councils, adding the government also plans to hold separate meetings with the island councils. He added the discussions include sharing information on the current state of local tourism and the government's policies in order to formulate a development plan.
Minister Mausoom noted each island is a unique destination and has the capability to establish its own tourism business. He added the purpose of developing the local tourism sector is to create a competitive market in the atolls and for citizens to receive its benefits.
Since the reopening of Maldivian borders, 425 guesthouses have begun operations with 7,726 beds. As part of the efforts to expand the local tourism sector, the government is conducting initiatives related to meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), cultural, and sports tourism.