The Maldivian government recorded a 2.8 percent decline in non-tax revenue during the first half of the year, according to the latest fiscal figures released by the Ministry of Finance.

The ministry's weekly fiscal report shows the state collected MVR 4.72 billion in non-tax revenue as of July 2, compared with MVR 4.85 billion during the same period last year, representing a decrease of approximately MVR 136 million.

The government has projected MVR 8.70 billion in non-tax revenue for the year, meaning 54 percent of the annual target had been achieved by early July.

The decline was primarily driven by lower collections from government fees and charges.

Revenue from expatriate quota fees fell from MVR 170 million to MVR 152 million, while income from other unspecified fees and charges dropped sharply from MVR 874 million to MVR 352 million.

Dividend payments from state-owned enterprises also declined during the period, falling from MVR 411 million last year to MVR 340 million.

Despite the reduction in non-tax revenue, the government has generated a total of MVR 22.4 billion in revenue and grants so far this year, placing collections at roughly half of the MVR 40.4 billion projected in the national budget.

The fiscal report also indicates that recurrent expenditure continues to account for the majority of government spending, with 87 percent of total expenditure allocated to recurring costs such as salaries, administrative expenses, and day-to-day operational activities.