KZN hospitality levies to be discussed

The KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Department will soon announce the dates when it will consult with the hospitality sector over its proposed hospitality levy.
MEC Mike Mabuyakhulu said during his budget speech last week that the department was considering a 10% levy to ease the burden on municipalities and the local government when hosting major events.
The department’s Bheko Madlala says government has in the past been required to foot the whole bill when hosting business and entertainment events.
However, he says it is the local hospitality sector that immediately reaps the rewards of accommodating visitors.
According to Madlala, the model will encourage a partnership between government and business.
“This money is going to be used to create what we call a bid fund to attract major events to that particular destination. We have seen that it is high time that the travel sector also contributes to ensure that these major events are brought to the province of KwaZulu-Natal,” he concluded (Photo by Google images).