Tourist arrival figures ‘untrustworthy’
Germany’s ambassador to the Maldives said the economy was suffering because of the volatile political situation and ordinary people were bearing the brunt.
14 Apr 2018, 9:00 AM
Tour operators are questioning official visitor numbers to the Maldives, a top diplomat has said, with resort owners complaining of losses and low occupancy rates.
Germany’s ambassador to the Maldives Jorn Rohde said the economy was suffering because of the volatile political situation and ordinary people were bearing the brunt.
The Maldives’ reputation as an upmarket holiday destination has been battered in recent months due to a 45-day state of emergency, with key political figures thrown in prison and basic constitutional rights suspended.
February saw a double-digit growth in visitor numbers, despite the negative headlines and international condemnation about the political crisis. The tax authority beat its forecast for revenue collection due to the arrivals bump.
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