Harare, (New Ziana) – The Government has approved a comprehensive review of licences, permits, levies, and fees in the tourism sector as part of ongoing efforts to improve the ease of doing business, reduce operational costs, and enhance Zimbabwe’s economic competitiveness.

Announcing the development at a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere said the decision aligns with Cabinet’s July 29, 2025, resolution to overhaul regulatory frameworks across all business sectors.

“The review targets the accommodation, hospitality and catering, tour guide and operators, boating services, and vehicle rental services value chains, which have been operating under a choking regulatory environment,” said Dr. Muswere.

He explained that a consultative approach was adopted to identify and eliminate unjustifiable licences and permits, cut unsustainably high levies, and remove duplicative and overlapping regulatory requirements.

“This initiative is a critical step towards streamlining the tourism sector, making it more investor-friendly, and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive destination,” he added.

The revised regulatory framework will undergo further refinements before implementation. Dr. Muswere emphasized that the reforms are part of broader government measures to promote efficiency, attract investment, and drive growth under the national ease-of-doing-business programme.

Industry stakeholders have long complained about excessive fees and complex licensing processes, which they say have stifled growth in one of Zimbabwe’s key economic sectors.
The latest Cabinet decision is expected to bring relief and spur innovation within the industry.

New Ziana