The Maldives Customs Service has introduced a new policy outlining the conditions for publicly disclosing the names of individuals and entities that have failed to make required payments.

According to the policy, names will only be published if certain conditions are met, including the suspension of services or expiration of payment orders, and if the unpaid amount totals MVR 10,000 or more. The names will first appear on the Customs website and may also be published in the Government Gazette and on Customs’ social media platforms.

The policy mandates that the list of defaulters be published at least once every two months. If a defaulter settles their payments or reaches a formal agreement with Customs on repayment, their name will be removed from the website. However, once a name has been published in the Government Gazette, it cannot be withdrawn.

Certain categories, including government institutions, state-owned companies, government contractors, and deceased individuals, are exempt from having their names disclosed.

A five-member steering committee has been formed to oversee the process and handle complaints. Those wishing to contest the publication of their name must submit a complaint within five days, and the committee is required to respond within ten days.

The new policy takes effect immediately.