Tourism Sector Applauds Levy Cuts as Zimbabwe Eyes Regional Edge

Zimbabwe’s tourism industry has applauded the government’s decision to reduce levies, taxes, and permit fees by up to 50 percent.

The reforms, announced last week, are expected to restore competitiveness, ease operational costs, and attract more investment into the sector.

Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe acting president, Mrs Emma Kativhu, said the measures were long overdue and would help reposition Zimbabwe as a preferred destination in the region.

“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 Mr Farai Chimba said the sector is now focused on swift implementation through legislative channels.

He emphasised that the benefits must reach operators directly to have meaningful impact.

“The tourism sector now awaits the full implementation, through necessary legislative frameworks by the government in the shortest possible time to allow for the benefits of these pronouncements to bear fruit at operator level.

“In the meantime, the tourism industry is appealing to the government to put lasting measures and solutions that will facilitate the industry to contribute meaningfully to the Gross Domestic Product beyond the current 12 percent, with annual foreign currency receipts of US$1.2 billion and create more employment,” he said.

According to ZBC, the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe (TBCZ) has also welcomed the announcement but urged the government to address infrastructure gaps that continue to hinder growth.

Chief Executive Officer, Paul Matamisa said poor connectivity and outdated facilities remain a challenge.

“Key tourism enablers require the government’s urgent attention, but not limited to road infrastructure in tourist-heavy routes, to facilitate seamless destination connectivity across the country and attract more inbound tourists.

“TBCZ further appeals to the government to invest more in airports, notably in the Eastern Highlands, Masvingo, and revive the same in Kariba,” he said.

Beyond financial relief, the tourism sector has pledged to work closely with government on the drafting of the upcoming Tourism Policy (2026–2030).

Stakeholders say the policy will be critical in guiding long-term development and positioning Zimbabwe as a leading travel destination in Southern Africa.