Tourism Policy

Policy

Tourism shall continue to be treated as an industry, contributing more aggressively towards socio-economic growth.

A paradigm shift from promoting seasonal tourism to year rounds tourism.

A qualitative improvement/development in environment, human resources, tourist services and the tourist product.

Federal & Provincial Governments to bring all legislation in consonance with demands of the tourist industry.

Stimulate private sector involvement in tourism through provision of industry support constructs.

Goals and Targets

To increase foreign visitors arrivals from 0.42 million in year 2000 to 6.5% annually over the next five years.

To increase foreign exchange earnings from US$ 385 million in year 2000 to US$ 500 million over the next three years.

Incentives

10% customs duty on import of plant, machinery and equipment.

Tax relief: First year allowance @ 75% of machinery cost.

Tourism Projects to be allowed the status of industry.

50% income tax exemption be allowed to tour operators who bring in at least 500 inbound tourists in the form of group tours in that calendar year.

Number of taxes covering the Hospitality Sector will be restricted to a maximum of six or seven taxes at the federal and provincial levels.

On the recommendations of the Ministry of Tourism, land for hotels, motels, recreation parks, fund lands, athletic clubs, cultural centers etc., to be provided on non-commercial rates and on long lease basis by the development authorities at the Federal and Provincial levels.