Home Minister Ali Ihusaan announced that the deportation of foreigners engaged in illegal business activities in the Maldives will create greater opportunities for local businesses. His remarks came during a parliamentary session today, addressing concerns raised by Maradhoo MP Ahmed Didi regarding the government’s recent deportation efforts.
MP Didi questioned the impact of the deportation of over 4,000 foreigners since the government assumed power, asking whether it has yielded any benefits for the country and its citizens. In response, Minister Ihusaan acknowledged that while an exact calculation of the benefits has not been conducted, he believes the nation will see positive outcomes.
The Minister explained that removing foreign competitors from the market would help local businesses thrive. “It will create business opportunities for the people. It will certainly be better to keep the money in the economy,” he stated.
Ihusaan highlighted that many foreigners are operating various businesses illegally across the Maldives, including small and medium-sized enterprises such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and barber shops, often doing so under the guise of local ownership. The government has intensified immigration raids targeting these illegal operations to ensure compliance with local laws.
MP Didi questioned the impact of the deportation of over 4,000 foreigners since the government assumed power, asking whether it has yielded any benefits for the country and its citizens. In response, Minister Ihusaan acknowledged that while an exact calculation of the benefits has not been conducted, he believes the nation will see positive outcomes.
The Minister explained that removing foreign competitors from the market would help local businesses thrive. “It will create business opportunities for the people. It will certainly be better to keep the money in the economy,” he stated.
Ihusaan highlighted that many foreigners are operating various businesses illegally across the Maldives, including small and medium-sized enterprises such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and barber shops, often doing so under the guise of local ownership. The government has intensified immigration raids targeting these illegal operations to ensure compliance with local laws.
