Tourism Minister Pledges Continued Support as Sector Drives 28% of GDP

Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing the Maldives' tourism sector, describing it as the fundamental pillar of the national economy. Marking National Tourism Day on October 3, Minister Ameen lauded the industry's workforce for maintaining the archipelago's status as a premier global destination. In a social media message, he expressed personal pride in the resilience and growth of the hospitality sector, which continues to link the Maldives to the international community. The Minister highlighted the critical economic impact of the industry, noting that tourism generates 28 percent of the nation's GDP and accounts for 60 percent of foreign exchange earnings. These figures underscore the sector's role not just as a luxury offering, but as a primary driver of national stability and wealth. Employment data further illustrates the sector's scale. As of 2022, the industry employed 55,874 people. Of this workforce, 23,146 are Maldivian citizens, representing 41.4 percent of the total staff. This workforce provides essential livelihoods across the islands, bridging the gap between local communities and the global tourism market. National Tourism Day commemorates a pivotal moment in Maldivian history: the opening of the country's first resort on October 3, 1972. The modest 30-room Vihamanaafushi—now known as Kurumba Maldives—was constructed using lime plaster and offered 60 beds. This single venture laid the foundation for what has evolved into a world-leading hospitality industry. Minister Ameen concluded by assuring stakeholders that the government will continue to provide the necessary resources and cooperation to advance the sector. By prioritizing tourism, the administration aims to further catalyze employment opportunities and ensure sustainable economic growth for the Maldives.