China takes first place in top tourist markets to the Maldives

China, that assumed the third place in the top tourist markets to the Maldives on January 29^th, has now edged to first place.

As per statistics publicized by the Tourism Ministry on Sunday – China is the top tourist market to the Maldives with a total of 23,972 arrivals. In second place is Russia with 21,898 arrivals. Italy takes third place with 21,321 arrivals.

Maldives has recorded 22,085 tourist arrivals from February 1^st to February 4^th – a 31.2 percent increase compared to the same period last year, which saw 16,833 arrivals.

In his presidential address on Monday, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu forecasted that two million tourists will visit the island nation this year. 

President Muizzu also spoke regarding his administration's goals for the tourism sector this year which include opening 20 new resorts that will create 2,827 beds and providing assistance to complete the development of unfinished resorts.