In Brief: ABTA has welcomed reports that the Maldives Government will postpone its new tax on overseas travel businesses until April 2027. The association is seeking formal confirmation and clarification on how the tax, which took effect on 1 October, applies to travel agents.
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Maldives Postpones New Tax on Overseas Travel Businesses Until April 2027 – Image Credit ABTA
Susan Deer, Director of Industry Relations at ABTA – The Travel Association said:
“We understand the Maldives Tourism Minister has said that implementation of the new tax on overseas travel businesses will be postponed.
“It was reported in Maldives media that implementation of the tax will be postponed until April 2027. ABTA is seeking formal confirmation of the postponement and next steps, given the law came into force on 1 October, and we will update members once we have heard more.
“ABTA has been working hard behind the scenes, including with the UK’s High Commissioner, and international associations, to put members’ concerns to the Maldives Government about the new tax. This has included calling for postponement, given that it was brought in without any prior warning or consultation with the international industry, as well as raising a number of other points, including seeking clarification on how this applies to agents.
“It appears from the local media reports that the Government has listened and is acting on our calls, which sounds like a positive development. However, we recognise that until there is official confirmation and proper engagement between the Government and industry, the situation remains difficult for members. We are continuing to address this issue through all of the avenues available to us.”