In an address at the ITB Berlin, President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the Maldives tourism industry was resilient to shocks mainly because the government kept itself out of business in the industry. He then reiterated that the government must only play the role of a regulator.
While the tourism industry had felt the impacts of global economic downturns, the President said, the industry always “bounced back fairly quickly”. He added that the Maldives’ tourism was affected by the recent global economic crisis, although that it was now on the road to recovery.
“Already tourist arrivals are going up and demand is good. Many resorts are fully booked,” he said.
He also said international investors were confident of the Maldives’ tourism industry and as a result international chains were continuing to do business in the Maldives.
Speaking to an audience of tour operators, representatives from Maldives tourism industry, and representatives from other countries, the President discussed government’s plans to expand the industry.
He emphasised that in making and implementing new plans, the government would always consult with the private sector.
“We will listen to the industry and continue to keep the Maldives [an attractive place] for everyone to visit.”
In his address, the President also highlighted the impacts of climate change on tourism. The government and the people in the industry were committed to make tourism a sustainable industry, he said.
The address was given at the Berlin tourism fair grounds on Thursday.
