Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer has requested the parliament to pass the amendment to the Goods and Services Tax Act submitted by Ihavandhoo MP Mohamed Shifau on behalf of the government.

Ameer who was summoned to parliament had requested all MPs to pass the bill and stated that failure to pass the bill could lead to slow economic growth. 

He further explained that the government is always taking the necessary measures based on the situation. He elaborated that the global inflation rate has increased and countries like the United States have increased their interest rates. Ameer when on to explain that the Maldives is one of the few lucky countries in the World with 41.6 per cent growth in 2021 and 13 per cent growth in 2022. 

Ameer explained by saying that costs keep on rising and basic infrastructure needs to be built in many Maldivian islands. Ameer appealed by saying that a new source of income needs to be found and this is the recommendation from international organisations. 

However, many MPs questioned minister ameer and requested the minister to give a full clear picture. Despite these questions ministers, many MPs have questioned whether the minister is providing a sufficient answer. 

The government has been working to increase taxes from 6 to 8 per cent and T-GST from 12 to 16 percent.