Maldives Government to Overhaul Jet Handling Business for Local Economic Benefit

In a major move to retain revenue within the Maldives and boost the national economy, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen, announced new government measures to ensure that earnings from the jet handling business benefit local companies. This initiative is set to address the existing structure, which has largely funneled profits to foreign-owned interests.

At a press conference at the President's Office, Minister Ameen described the current situation, highlighting that although jet handling operations are registered under a Maldivian company, the revenue largely benefits foreign entities, especially from neighboring countries. He emphasized that the government’s priority is to restructure these business arrangements to better support the country’s economic interests.

“The government is dedicated to restructuring company registrations in the jet handling industry, ensuring that our local businesses receive the financial benefits,” stated Minister Ameen. “We must prevent revenue from flowing outside our borders and instead ensure these earnings empower Maldivian businesses.”

In addition to restructuring jet handling operations, Minister Ameen announced the government will be conducting comprehensive audits on general and passenger sales agents involved in aviation. These audits aim to secure transparency and strengthen the role of Maldivian companies across aviation-related operations in the Maldives.