Mozambique Introduces Accommodation Levy to Fund Marketing Campaigns, Improve Infrastructure and Attract New Global Travelers

Mozambique is set to introduce a new tourism levy on accommodations as part of a bold plan to boost the nation’s tourism sector, attract international travelers, and accelerate economic growth. The measure is a cornerstone of the country’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (PRECE), aiming to generate sustainable funding for marketing, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced visitor experiences.

The accommodation-based levy is designed to directly support the development and promotion of Mozambique as a globally recognized tourist destination. Although exact figures for the tax have not been disclosed, the government plans to allocate the revenue to initiatives that expand foreign visitor numbers, improve the quality of tourism services, and create new employment opportunities across the sector. This strategy reflects Mozambique’s ambition to transform tourism into a key driver of national economic development.

Current government investment in tourism marketing is relatively modest, estimated at around US$350,000 per year. In contrast, neighboring countries such as South Africa dedicate tens of millions of dollars annually to tourism promotion. The proposed levy seeks to close this funding gap, enabling Mozambique to compete more effectively in both regional and international tourism markets.

Authorities anticipate that the new funding will significantly enhance tourism’s economic contribution, increasing its direct share of GDP from 1.1% to approximately 5%. The revenue will support international marketing campaigns, improve service standards, and facilitate training programs for hospitality staff, as well as establish quality standards for local operators.

Upgrading infrastructure is a central aspect of the plan. Key investments will target airports, transport networks, and visitor facilities to improve accessibility and convenience for tourists. Mozambique also plans to diversify its offerings, promoting cultural, historical, and eco-tourism experiences alongside its renowned beaches and natural reserves. From marine parks and wildlife sanctuaries to historical monuments and cultural festivals, the country is creating a wide array of experiences to appeal to varied traveler interests.

A major goal of the levy is to maximize the economic benefit of each visitor. Currently, the average revenue retained per tourist is approximately US$125. With the new measures, Mozambique aims to increase this to US$500 per visitor. If successful, annual income from foreign tourism could rise from US$62.5 million to US$500 million, representing a transformative shift for the sector and the wider economy.

The levy is expected to generate extensive benefits beyond direct revenue. Growth in tourism will support job creation across multiple sectors, including hospitality, transportation, local crafts, entertainment, and services. Opportunities will be created in both urban and rural regions, supporting community development and fostering greater regional economic balance.

In addition to boosting revenue, the levy will provide more predictable funding for tourism operators, enabling investment in new projects, renovations, and service improvements. By combining infrastructure upgrades, staff training, and quality standards, Mozambique aims to raise its international profile as a world-class travel destination.

The initiative highlights the strategic role of tourism in Mozambique’s long-term development plans. By introducing a dedicated accommodation levy, the government seeks to transform the sector into a central pillar of economic growth, supporting foreign investment, job creation, and sustainable development. Improved infrastructure, enhanced visitor services, and diversified tourism products will ensure that both international travelers and local communities benefit from this approach.

The levy will also facilitate broader initiatives, including sustainable tourism practices, cultural and environmental preservation, and the creation of tourism hubs that showcase the country’s unique attractions. These measures are expected to generate lasting benefits, fostering a resilient and high-quality tourism ecosystem.

Through this comprehensive strategy, Mozambique aims to establish itself as one of southern Africa’s most competitive and attractive destinations. By increasing visitor numbers, improving spending per tourist, and raising service standards, the country seeks to ensure that tourism becomes a major driver of economic prosperity and social progress. With the tourism levy, Mozambique is positioning itself for a future in which the sector generates significant revenue, creates employment, and showcases the country’s cultural and natural richness to the world.