Board sets out to close 197 tourism outlets

Tourism and Hotels Board has announced plans to close 197 tourism units for failure to meet minimum standards.

In a statement, the board’s chairperson Sosten Lingwalanya said some of the units have already been closed by the owners for various reasons.

He said: “The board further informs the general public that it will close down 197 tourism units for failing to meet the minimum standards.”

 “The board further informs all tourism units that are not on this list, and were given time to work on their shortfalls to do so before the grace period expires.”

In an interview on Tuesday, Malawi Tourism Council former director and Orbis Destination Management Company managing director Innocent Kaliati described the development as unfortunate.

He said: “As you know, this is happening at a time Malawi’s tourism industry is just reopening after Covid-19 and prospects are positive, having seen authorities removing visa restrictions to attract more travelers into Malawi.

“I am sure every operator in the sector understands the minimum standards requirements. These standards are very critical because we are supposed to make sure the safety of tourists is guaranteed either in terms of environment or the food that is served.”

Kaliati has also decried the new requirement for tour operators to have tax clearance certificate from the Malawi Revenue Authority, which he said takes longer to be.

This, he said, is a setback to the businesses.

Meanwhile, the board has granted operating licences to 851 tourism units for 2024/25 fiscal year to enterprises.