The Maldives Just Paused a Tax on Overseas Travel Sellers

The Maldives has postponed a 17 percent levy on tourism products and booking services sold by providers located outside the country. The tax was due to start on October 1 and would have required overseas sellers to register with the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority. It is now suspended until April 1; the report does not specify the year.

The government estimated the measure could raise about US$104 million. It would have applied to foreign tour operators, travel agencies and overseas booking platforms, and the plan caused confusion about who was actually covered.

Tour operators asked for a delay or withdrawal, arguing the cost could be passed on to travelers. The reports do not give an official government reason for the postponement.

The uncertainty has not fully cleared. The Association of British Travel Agents said the situation remains difficult for its members until there is official confirmation of the delay. For travelers planning Maldives trips booked through foreign agencies, the practical takeaway is that prices could still change if the levy returns in spring.

Sources: TravelPulse, Travel Extra