The islandchief

TABLOID | ePaper

Frankly Speaking

Government has provided support with additional Covid-19 related financial aid to the tourism industry. But the current loan schemes are very strict on the requirements which prevents companies that are in dire need of them. As per the industry, it may be ideal for companies who do not have loans and would not want to take a loan on a low interest. Do you think that the industry needs easier access to finance and at a lower rate to revive and sustain or the procedures are fine?

PUBLISHED August 06, 2021

Maldives has seen a major drop of arrival numbers due to temporary suspension of tourists from South Asian destinations. What’s your opinion on lifting the suspension with extra measures?

PUBLISHED July 01, 2021

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