11 businesses closed in crackdown on illegal foreign operations
The ministry announced the initiative a week ago, requesting the public and foreigners to report businesses operating in prohibited sectors.
The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade said on Friday that 11 businesses have been closed as part of the government's operation to curb illegal foreign businesses in the Maldives.
The ministry announced the initiative a week ago, requesting the public and foreigners to report businesses operating in prohibited sectors. According to the ministry, 125 reports have been received to date.
In a statement, the ministry said that, based on the reports, inspections were carried out at 20 cafés, 12 retail outlets, two garages and one guesthouse. Eleven of these businesses have been closed.
The individuals involved were arrested for unauthorised trade and the unauthorised sale of tobacco products.
The ministry said it has identified two ways in which foreigners are operating unlawfully in the Maldives:
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Businesses run by foreigners using Maldivians as fronts
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Foreign-operated businesses functioning in sectors not permitted under the Foreign Investment Act
The ministry has urged the public to report any suspected cases of foreign businesses operating in prohibited sectors. Reports may be submitted through:
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The Ministry’s website
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The Ministry’s hotline at 3333199 (8am to 8pm)
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Immigration Watch
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