Tourism sector applauds Govt’s move to cut levies and boost competitiveness

Zimbabwe’s tourism industry has welcomed the Government’s recent decision to slash levies, taxes, and licensing fees by up to 50 percent, describing the measures as a game-changer that will restore the sector’s competitiveness both regionally and globally.
The announcement, made last week, follows long-standing concerns that the proliferation of permits and charges was stifling growth in one of the country’s most promising economic sectors. In some instances, certain levies and fees have been completely removed, signalling a new chapter for tourism operators who have been grappling with high operational costs.
In an interview with the media yesterday, Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) acting president, Mrs. Emma Kativhu, described the Government’s intervention as a lifeline for the industry. She noted that the reforms were critical to consolidating recent gains made by the sector.
“This is a positive development, and the tourism industry applauds the Government on this strategic move, which should help the industry regain some of its competitive leverage. Needless to say, the numerous levies, licences and permits were a huge albatross on the tourism sector, with the net effect of making Destination Zimbabwe uncompetitive amongst its regional peers,” she said.
Tourism advisor, Farai Chimba, added that the measures will go a long way in improving profitability. He emphasised, however, the importance of swift implementation through the necessary legislative frameworks so that operators can begin to feel the impact on the ground.
“The tourism sector now awaits the full implementation to allow for the benefits of these pronouncements to bear fruit at operator level. In the meantime, the industry is appealing to the Government to put lasting measures in place that will enable tourism to contribute meaningfully to GDP beyond the current 12 percent, while generating foreign currency receipts above the present US$1.2 billion annually and creating more employment,” he said.
Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe (TBCZ) Chief Executive Officer, Paul Matamisa, echoed the sentiments but also highlighted the urgent need for complementary infrastructure development.
“Key tourism enablers require the Government’s urgent attention, particularly road infrastructure along tourism-heavy routes, to ensure seamless connectivity across destinations as well as attract more inbound tourists. TBCZ further appeals to the Government to invest more in airports, notably in the Eastern Highlands and Masvingo, and revive the same in Kariba,” he said.
The private sector has also pledged to work closely with the Government in drafting the forthcoming Tourism Policy (2026–2030), which is expected to chart a clear path for sustainable growth and improved global positioning.

With these bold policy interventions, the Government has signalled its intent to reposition Zimbabwe as a competitive and attractive destination. The onus now lies on the timely rollout of these reforms, alongside infrastructure upgrades, to ensure that tourism continues to grow as a key pillar of Vision 2030.