Economic Ministry has assured the various local safari operators of their businesses unharmed due to the impending China-Maldives free trade agreement.
The assurance from Ministry came post a meeting between Economic Minister Ahmed Saeed took place with members of Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM) - a non-profit organization representing the local safari operators and owners.
It was rumored the free trade agreement would grant China residents to own safari lines and permission to operate their safaris in Maldives - bearing full ownership.
Board members of LAM - including president Ibrahim Shahid, vice president Ismail Hameed along with members Amir Mansoor, Mufeed Abdulla and Ahmed Zubair Adam - had met with Economic Minister Saeed to express their concern about FTA developments.
Secretary General of LAM Mohamed Ignaz Ali had confirmed the association was assured by Minister Saeed that the FTA would not place local safari owners under a 'loaded gun.'
According to current regulations safari ownership can be held by Maldivian nationals while any foreign investment or corporation need to collaborate with a local entity in order to such a business in Maldives.
Currently Maldivian safari industry boasts of approximately 150 distinct cruise vessels operating in Maldives while government received an income of USD 8.8 million from the industry.
