New Delhi: India, which had topped the Maldives tourism chart in December 2023, slipped to the fifth spot per data released by the Maldives Ministry of Tourism on Monday.
Maldives tourism sees a decline in India’s share amid diplomatic tensions over the derogatory remarks by some Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Modi. Â However, China remained at the third spot compared to its position in December 2023.
The Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches and luxury tourism, has witnessed a significant shift in its tourist demographics, with Indian visitors dropping from the third to the fifth largest group within three weeks.
Indian tourists have long been a key demographic for the Maldives, comprising nearly 11% of its tourism market 2023. However, the recent controversy surrounding Modi’s beach excursion to Lakshadweep on January 2 stirred up a storm, leading to a notable decline in Indian tourist numbers.