Maldives Customs Service has decided to reduce some of the fees taken from tourist vessels docking in the Maldives.
The latest amendment to the general regulations of Customs was published in the gazette on May 23. The amendment states tourist vessels docking in the Maldives which are shorter than 15 metres in length will be charged an inward fee and an outward fee amounting to USD 16 each. Such vessels were charged USD 65 under the old regulations. Meanwhile, larger vessels are charged USD 65 for both inward and outward fees, under the new regulations.
The amendment also states vessels which arrive in the Maldives for provision can stay docked for a period of 7 days without an agent. The vessels shall also be given 72 hours to appoint an agent. Failure to appoint an agent within 72 hours will lead to a fine of USD 323, which will need to be paid to Customs before departure.
Furthermore, the amendment states vessels shorter than 15 metres need to provide the estimated time of arrival in the Maldives 12 hours before arrival. If unable to provide the estimated time of arrival, a document would need to be submitted detailing the reason why the estimated time of arrival cannot be provided. The document can include a request to seek clearance from Customs.