Maldives Green Tax Revenue Hits USD 57.9 Million Amid Rising Tourist Arrivals

The Maldives has generated USD 57.91 million in Green Tax revenue so far this year, marking an 18 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. According to data released by the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises, the revenue grew by USD 9.10 million over the previous year's figure of USD 48.81 million. Introduced in 2016, the Green Tax is levied on tourists staying at resorts, guesthouses, hotels, and safari vessels. The funds are specifically earmarked to support critical environmental projects across the archipelago, including beach protection, nationwide clean-up programs, and the development of essential water supply and sewerage infrastructure. This financial growth follows a strategic revision of tax rates implemented on January 1, 2025. Fees for higher-end tourist establishments doubled from USD 6 to USD 12 per night, while rates for other accommodation providers increased from USD 3 to USD 6. Children under the age of two remain exempt from the levy. The surge in revenue aligns with a steady rise in visitor numbers. Data from the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation indicates that over 800,000 tourists have visited the Maldives this year, with the country currently recording an average of 6,618 arrivals per day. While tourist arrivals initially saw a decline due to temporary flight suspensions linked to conflicts in the Middle East, the industry has shown resilience. Recovery has been bolstered by the resumption of services from several major airlines, allowing the tourism sector to regain its momentum. By linking tourism growth directly to environmental funding, the government continues to leverage the Maldives' primary industry to protect its fragile ecosystem and improve the sustainability of its island communities.