The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has challenged players in the tourism sector to voluntarily pay their taxes to enable the government to improve infrastructure within the tourism sites across the country.
Addressing tourism players in Bulawayo on Friday, ZIMRA commissioner general, Regina Chinamasa, said:
There is a need to complement the tourism sector with equally world-class services such as roads, security and health services within the tourism sites across the country.
Such services are driven by the government through largely the taxes and levies we all pay. Tax compliance by the tourism and hospitality sector is therefore key.
We want the tourists to have a memorable drive to the different sites across the country, enjoying the scenic sights along the way.
Currently, the tourism sector contributes about 7% of Zimbabwe’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Chinamasa believes the sector can contribute more to economic recovery as the country is considered one of the preferred destinations by tourists. She said:
The sector has vast potential to be among the anchor sectors of the country. Currently, tourism and hospitality is among the top three foreign currency generators in our country.
The country is home to a robust, diverse and rich culture that is admired by many. Your sector is ably managed as evidenced by the world-class hotels, lodges, resort sites, and camps among other sites that offer a hospitality environment.
With such a glamour record, the country is considered one of the preferred destinations by tourists.