Tourism Levy Cancelled

Botswana has stopped the introduction of a $30 tourism development levy.

Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Permanent Secretary, Jimmy Opelo, said the proposed levy had been withdrawn to allow the government more time to consult the industry. “This withdrawal will enable the Ministry and the Botswana Tourism Organisation to conduct further engagement with various stakeholders.”

The tourism levy was intended to sustain tourism facilities. It will be resubmitted to parliament after thorough consultation with the tourism industry and in accordance with established procedure. The Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) had strongly criticised the lack of consultation during the drafting of the levy.