By Maxwell Mapungwana
Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has introduced a new schedule of spot fines targeting operators of designated tourism facilities who fail to comply with regulatory requirements, in a move aimed at maintaining standards and protecting the integrity of the country’s tourism industry.
The authority said the penalties form part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining high operating standards across the sector and ensuring that all tourism businesses operate within the law.
Under the new penalty framework, operators found conducting business without a valid registration licence will be fined US$200 per month, with charges accumulating for a maximum period of two years, while businesses that fail to submit renewal applications or new registration applications on time facing a US$100 penalty.
The ZTA has also imposed a hefty US$500 fine for unapproved alterations to tourism facilities, underscoring the importance of adhering to approved standards and regulations.
In addition, tourism operators who fail to display their regulatory licences in areas accessible to both law enforcement agencies and clients will be liable to a US$100 fine. The same penalty will apply to designated tourism facilities that fail to submit statistical data to designated tourism officers.
Facilities that do not meet the prescribed minimum standards will also be fined US$100, while operators who fail to maintain guest records at their establishments will face a similar penalty.
The authority urged all operators to ensure full compliance with the regulations to avoid sanctions, stressing that adherence to industry standards is critical for maintaining Zimbabwe’s reputation as a competitive tourism destination.
“Compliance is not optional. Register, operate legally and protect the integrity of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector,” the authority said.
The latest measures are expected to enhance accountability within the industry, improve service standards and promote fair competition among tourism operators across the country.
New Ziana
