Asian Development Bank (ADB) has stated that although the tourism industry in Maldives is flourishing in the international market, its benefits are not adequately reaching the country and its economy.
Speaking at a press conference held jointly on Monday by ADB President Takehiko Nakao and Finance Minister Ahmed Ameer, Mr Nakao said while over 1.5 million tourists spent their holiday in Maldives, the true benefits of the tourism industry do not reach the country's citizens.
Mr Nakao said the issue was discussed extensively with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Speaker of the Parliament Mohamed Nasheed.
Nakao emphasized that policies must be changed in such a way that fees can be generated from the tourism sector for the purpose, and to ensure that resort development has a minimal impact on the environment,in addition to allowing increased employment opportunities for Maldivians.
Mr Nakao noted that the guest house business under the local tourism concept is a key instrument in delivering profits of tourism to the people, and emphasized the importance of expanding the guest house business in the Maldives.
ADB is one of the largest financial institutions in the wold that assists Maldives. Since 1978, ADB has given US$ 315 million in assistance to Maldives for different projects.
During his first trip to Maldives, Mr Nakao reaffirmed strong support to Maldives. In this regard, ADB will extend an assistance of US$ 120 million under a three year development plan for energy production and natural gas projects in Maldives.
ADB President Takehiko Nakao and Finance Minister Ahmed Ameer
