Khaleel said that with both agencies working as one team, tourism industry objectives can be more effectively achieved, which is a very positive outcome.
Ministry of Tourism and the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) are now collaborating more closely 'as one team' to develop the tourism sector, Advisor to the President on Tourism Development Mohamed Khaleel said.
During a press conference held by the Ministry and MMPRC on Thursday, Khaleel emphasized that the two entities had previously operated independently, with little communication between them.
"I am very pleased that today, MMPRC and the Ministry of Tourism are working much closer together than ever before," Khaleel said.
He highlighted that the lack of alignment in their policies had hindered progress in the past, but now, with both agencies working as one team, objectives can be more effectively achieved. This a very positive outcome, he added.
He said that the participation of all stakeholders the tourism sector is very important to address the challenges in the industry.
Khaleel said that the biggest issue facing the sector is the decline in revenue, despite an increase in tourist arrivals. This, he explained, is due to the low room rates in resorts.
"The state is a significant beneficiary of the tourism industry, as direct revenue from the industry goes to the state," Khaleel said.
Khaleel urged the Tourism Ministry and MMPRC to prioritize boosting demand for the Maldives and increasing tourist arrivals. He said that policies should also be formulated to raise the average daily room rate.
"No matter the increase in arrivals, if we reduce room rates, the state will receive less revenue. Tax revenue is not increasing because a room sold for USD 100 is being sold at a discounted rate of USD 80," he said.
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