Villa Resorts gets temporary license to sell alcohol and pork

Tourism Ministry has granted a temporary license to sell alcohol and pork to the resorts under Villa Hotels and Resorts.

A press statement issued by the Tourism Ministry today said that providing the continual services needed by the tourists visiting the country is very important. And so to provide the services for the tourist in the resorts under Villa, a decision has been made after discussing with the relevant authorities to grant a temporarily license.

The Ministry said that the Maldives Association of Tourism Industries (MATI) and the industry stakeholders were discussed regarding the matter.

Ministry's statement noted that the Villa Group has large sum owed to the state including island rents and goods and service taxes. And the Ministry called to Villa Group to complete the payment soon.

Officers of police and customs service have recently raided some resorts under the Villa Hotels and Resorts seizing their alcohol. And recently seized the liquor license for Royal Island Resort.