Economy
Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has stated that, in accordance with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's pledge, the minimum fish purchasing price has been set at 20 Rufiyaa per kilogram and that this price is being maintained along with cost-cutting measures. Citing MIRA statistics, the Ministry of Tourism revealed that the government has now initiated efforts to recover 97 million dollars owed to the state in resort rents and fines. Furthermore, Qatar Airways has announced its decision to increase flights from Doha to Male from 12 to 21 per week starting October 25, 2026.
It has been revealed that the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) is undertaking special efforts to maintain the purchase price of fish from fishermen so that it does not fall below 20 Rufiyaa. The main objective of this effort is to prevent a decline in income for those active in the fishing industry and to ensure a fair price for fishermen. Accordingly, despite changes in the market, MIFCO is taking the necessary steps related to maintaining the purchase price of fish from dropping below 20 Rufiyaa. This decision is an important step taken to protect the rights of fishermen and advance this industry sustainably.
As revealed on September 11, 2026, 97 million dollars owed to the state as resort rent remains uncollected. This is a substantial accumulated sum of unpaid rent owed to the state from islands leased for tourism purposes. As the prolonged non-payment of these funds adversely affects state revenue, this issue highlights the necessity for relevant authorities to take further measures to recover the money.
Significant questions have arisen regarding the effective circulation within the Maldivian economy of foreign exchange earned through the tourism industry, particularly the US dollar. In this matter, questions have been directed at the government and relevant stakeholders concerning the exchange of dollars through the Maldivian banking system and the optimal utilization of such funds to bolster national reserves and establish economic stability. Furthermore, industry discussions are expanding regarding the challenges to increasing the proportion of tourism earnings entering the Maldivian economy directly, along with potential policies to address this.
Qatar's national airline, Qatar Airways, has decided to increase the number of flights it operates to the Maldives to 21 per week. With this decision, the airline is scheduled to operate three flights a day to the Maldives. This change is an important step taken with the aim of increasing the number of tourists visiting the Maldives and providing greater convenience to passengers traveling to the Maldives from around the world. Additionally, this increase in flights is expected to bring further vitality to the Maldives' aviation and tourism industries.