Maldives was shocked by the response of the Indians, now it is shooting itself in the foot again!

Maldives is one of the most expensive countries in the world for tourists. A large number of Indians go there to visit. But the government there is now going to take such a step which can shock those who are thinking of going to Maldives. Actually, the government there is going to increase the exit fee. This can be implemented from 1 December.

How much tax will be charged?

According to a report, people departing from Maldives will have to pay more money according to the class of the flight. For example, those traveling in economy class will have to pay $50. Earlier it was $30. Whereas, those traveling in business class will have to pay $120. Earlier it was $60. Whereas, those traveling in first class will have to pay $240, which was $90 earlier. Those departing by private jet will have to pay $480. Earlier it was $120.

This tax will be levied on non-Maldivians irrespective of their age. Not only this, distance will also not be considered in this. People coming from London will be charged the same tax as those coming from Delhi. The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority announced the tax hike in November to generate revenue for the maintenance of the country's Velana International Airport.

Some tourists may not even be aware of the new charges. These charges are added to the price of airline tickets. In addition, a startup all-business-class airline flying to the Maldives has advised customers to buy their tickets before November 30 to avoid the new tax.

Maldives suffered due to the anger of Indians

PM Modi had visited Lakshadweep earlier this year. A photo related to that was shared on social media. The Prime Minister had appealed to the people to visit Lakshadweep. Maldives did not like this statement of the PM and many leaders also gave controversial statements.

After the statement of the Maldives leaders, Indians started boycotting it. Relations between the two countries also deteriorated. Maldives was shocked by the boycott of Indians. During this period, the number of Indians going to Maldives decreased and the number of Indians reaching Lakshadweep increased.

Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia emerged as potential alternatives to Maldives. The additional options of beaches and tourism in these countries were increasing pressure on Maldives. Maldives President Mohammad Muizzu understood that enmity with India would only lead to losses, so he started increasing friendship with India.

Maldives consists of about 1,200 coral islands and atolls. The population there is about 520,000. Maldives depends on India for most things.