Evaluating the Factors Influencing Outbound Shopping Tourism among Maldivians

 Shopping tourism is a rapidly growing global trend. This study investigates the behavior of Maldivian consumers who travel abroad specifically for shopping. The research evaluates three key variables: Product Availability, Shopping Experience, and Destination Attributes. Using a mixed-method approach—including a web-based questionnaire and interviews with Maldivians in the capital—the study analyzes the relationship between these factors and the decision to engage in outbound shopping. The findings are intended to assist the Maldivian government and relevant ministries in developing the local retail industry to retain consumers and mitigate the adverse economic effects of outbound spending.