China-Aligned Maldives to launch India’s ‘RuPay’ service

• Cunning Maldives strategy to attract Indian tourists

• Maldives takes a hit with a 42% drop in Indian tourists

Male (Maldives) – The China-aligned Maldives has faced a significant blow from Indian tourists. In the past 4-5 months, the number of Indian tourists visiting Maldives has dropped by a whopping 42%. This decline has shaken the tourism-dependent Maldivian economy. In an effort to attract Indian tourists, Maldives has decided to launch India’s ‘RuPay Card’ service. Maldives’ Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, mentioned that this move will strengthen the Maldivian currency, ‘Rufiyaa’. However, no specific information has been provided about when this card will be operational.

Maldives’ Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal, emphasized strengthening relations with India and indicated a willingness to work together. He had previously stated clearly that the country’s economy depends on tourism. According to statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism, 42,638 Indian tourists visited Maldives from January to April this year, compared to 73,785 Indian tourists during the same period last year.

What is ‘RuPay Card’ ?

The ‘RuPay Card’ by the National Payments Corporation of India is the first Indian card included in the global card payment network. It is accepted across India for payments at ATMs, direct purchases, and e-commerce sites.

Editorial Perspective

Maldives, dancing to China’s tune and incurring India’s enmity, should now be shown its place by India by opposing the launch of the ‘RuPay Card’ service.