A recent diplomatic dispute between India and the Maldives has led to a significant shift in tourist preferences, benefitting Sri Lanka. In January 2024, Sri Lanka surpassed the Maldives in tourist arrivals, with 208,253 visitors compared to the Maldives’ 192,385. This marks a notable change as the Maldives had consistently attracted more tourists over the past four years.
The diplomatic row erupted in January, triggering a ‘Boycott Maldives’ campaign by Indian tourists in response to comments made by Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. Consequently, the Maldives experienced a decline in Indian tourist numbers, dropping from the top position to fifth place in just three weeks.
Official statistics from the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism reveal China as the leading source of tourists, with 23,972 visitors and an 11.2% market share in 2024. In the last three years, India consistently contributed over 2 lakh tourists annually to the Maldives, ranking as the highest source post-Covid. However, as of January 28, 2024, only 13,989 Indians visited the Maldives, reflecting a significant decline in India’s tourism contribution to the island nation.
