Ministry of Finance has announced changes to existing policies on purchasing air transportation tickets from government bodies to reduce state expenditures.
According to a circular issued on January 1, 2016, all domestic and international flights made by the government were required to be operated by Maldivian Holidays, a travel division of Island Aviation Service Limited (IASL). However, in a new financial circular issued by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq, the previous circular will no longer be effective from July 5 onwards. The new policy directs government offices to seek tickets from the cheapest available airline after checking prices directly from the airlines for flights to destinations not offered by Maldivian Holidays. The ministry has mandated that all government authorities implement this new circular.
The government has been making efforts to improve the nation's economic and financial situation by reducing government expenses, amending company policies, and implementing strategic measures.