The islandchief

TABLOID | ePaper

Frankly Speaking

Do you believe that Homestay Tourism would benefit the Maldives Tourism Industry and support it in terms of growth? Or would it pose a challenge for small and medium tourism sectors, most of whom have barely survived during the initial pandemic with the stimulus packages, loans and moratoriums?

PUBLISHED June 07, 2021

In the year 2010, shark fisheries and the sale of any shark products were banned in the Maldives by law. Eleven years since the ban, the local Fishing Industry has been raising concerns on fish that are caught that’s been half-eaten by sharks due to over population of the species. Following these concerns from local fishermen, the Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture suggested to have a dialogue with stakeholders to allow shark fisheries. This opinion platform to lift the ban has raised concerns among the country’s tourism industry, more importantly, within the Diving Industry. What is your take on this controversial matter on Shark Fisheries vs The Diving Industry?

PUBLISHED May 09, 2021

On March 5, 2021, Maldives Immigration made a statement with regard to tourist establishments utilising foreign nationals to perform music and photography without obtaining proper visas. They also stated that strict penalties will be imposed on businesses that continue to engage in such activities, that also affect the future of local artists. Will this pose a challenge across the 150+ resorts and 500+ guest houses in the Maldives? Or will this bring positive change by opening up more opportunities for local talents?

PUBLISHED April 04, 2021

Do you believe that the Addendum to the Tourism Act with the mandatory service charge aimed at supporting the tourism industry employees will affect the industry in increasing the number of visitors? How will this bring a positive impact in terms of service and job satisfaction?

PUBLISHED March 10, 2021

Maldives has been one of the few destinations in the world to have its borders opened for tourism and the only in South Asia. Having the national vaccinations campaign for COVID-19 launched on February 1, 2021 - would this entail a demand in attracting tourists? Do you think this would have a significant impact on tourist arrivals for 2021?

PUBLISHED February 07, 2021