Maldives government on Sunday pledged MVR100 million to develop and promote tourism in the archipelago next year.
Speaking during the new year show in the capital Male on Sunday evening, tourism minister Moosa Zameer hailed the achievements of the linchpin of the country's economy pointing out the seven percent boost in tourist arrivals in 2017 in comparison to the previous year.
The minister also noted the increase in tourism investments and beds in 2017 as a sign of an ever improving industry.
"We will conclude our ongoing efforts by spending MVR100 million to promote and strengthen our tourism industry next year," Zameer proclaimed.
The minister's comments are backed by the significantly improved arrival numbers this year. According to official tourism statistics, Maldives has welcomed a total 1.3 million tourists this year with major markets showing considerable improvement to previous years.