china-surpasses-india-as-top-tourist-market-in-the-maldives

China has overtaken India as the largest tourism market for the Maldives amidst a diplomatic row between the island nation and India. Official figures from the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism reveal that Chinese tourists now occupy the top spot.

 

As of February 4, 2024, China has become the primary source of tourism for the Maldives, with 23,972 tourists, claiming an 11.2% market share. In contrast, India, which held the top position in 2023, has slipped to the fifth position with 16,536 tourists, constituting a 7.7% market share in 2024.

 

This shift in tourist demographics is attributed to a diplomatic row that ensued following derogatory remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three Maldivian ministers. The social media backlash led to calls for boycotting tourism in the Maldives, potentially influencing the decision of Indian tourists.

 

The diplomatic rift escalated after Maldivian President Muizzu, perceived as a pro-China leader, formally requested India to withdraw 88 military personnel by March 15. This move sparked tensions and seemingly influenced the preferences of Indian tourists.

 

The derogatory remarks against Modi triggered a social media campaign advocating for the exploration of domestic destinations, resulting in reported cancellations of scheduled trips to the Maldives by Indian travellers.

 

In 2023, over 17 lakh tourists visited the Maldives, with Indians comprising the largest group (2,09,198), followed by Russians (2,09,146) and Chinese (1,87,118). The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) acknowledged India as a consistent and significant contributor to the country's tourism industry, especially during the pandemic.

 

However, in 2024, the tourism landscape has witnessed a shift. China, Russia, and Italy now hold the top three positions, with the UK in the fourth spot. Russia boasts 21,898 tourists (10.2% market share), Italy claims 21,321 tourists (9.9% market share), and the UK contributes 18,078 tourists (8.4% market share).

 

The diplomatic tensions have led to India's decline to the fifth position in the Maldives' tourism ranking. The ripple effect of the social media campaign and reported cancellations has prompted India to reevaluate its position as a tourist source for the archipelago.

 

President Muizzu, in his first presidential speech, unveiled plans to expand the Maldives' tourism sector. The initiatives include establishing 20 new resorts in 2024, adding 2,800 beds, and completing the development of undeveloped resorts. Additionally, a groundbreaking "Asseyri Tourism" project for Addu City, featuring a seaplane hub, is in the pipeline.

 

President Muizzu remains optimistic about the future of the Maldives' tourism sector, projecting the welcoming of 2 million tourists in 2024 for the first time. He emphasised the government's commitment to growth, driven by developments such as the completion of Velana International Airport and the introduction of new flight routes.