The Maldives Government appears to have postponed the introduction of its planned tax on foreign agents and operators after lobbying from the UK trade.
Local media reports that Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen revealed the 17% tax has been delayed from 1 October 2026 to 1 April 2027 during the Maldives National Tourism Day 2026 last Saturday (3 October).
ABTA welcomed the news, but said it is still seeking official confirmation.
The association has been lobbying the Maldives Government to review the extension of the Goods and Services Tax, which will require foreign agents and operators to register with the local tax authority and pay a 17% rate on margins and commissions earned on tourism products, from accommodation to excursions.
ABTA Director of Industry Relations Susan Deer said: “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.”
