The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) has reported that the state has collected MVR 789.8 million in departure tax from airport passengers so far this year.

According to MIRA’s latest tax revenue report for June, more than MVR 133 million was collected in departure tax last month alone.

Foreign exchange earnings from the tax reached USD 8.6 million in June, bringing the total to USD 57.2 million for the year.

Airport development fees have also risen compared to the same period last year, with total collections reaching MVR 885.8 million by June, including USD 57.4 million in foreign currency.

The increase in both departure tax and airport development fees is attributed to the higher rates implemented in December last year.

With the revised rates, foreigners travelling in economy class now pay USD 50 per person, up from the previous USD 30.

Business class passengers are charged USD 120, double the earlier fee, while private jet passengers pay USD 480 each.

The departure tax rate for Maldivians travelling in economy class remains unchanged.

According to MACL, that the opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) is expected to increase passenger traffic, further boosting revenue from departure taxes in the coming months.