Plans by members of the African Union to implement a new tourism tax on air passengers and hotel guests in Africa could have a detrimental effect on the long-term economic growth and should be scrapped, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.

“Rather than taxing tourists, I would urge the African Union to focus on ridding itself of complicated visa processes, liberalising its skies, planning infrastructure for the long term and eliminating poaching,” argues David Scowsill, President & CEO of WTTC.

“It is these measures, rather than taxation, which will ensure it gains a greater share of the global tourism market”.

“Travel & Tourism is a major pillar of the African economy which contributes to economic growth and job creation. The industry contributes 8.5% of total GDP and accounts for almost 20 million jobs, or 7% of total employment. It should be protected and encouraged”, Scowsill said.

“Instead, the plans being discussed by members of the African Union to add a tax on air passengers and hotel guests will inevitably prove counter-productive to the economy of countries with a heavy reliance on Travel & Tourism, as has been proved in many other countries and regions around the world”.