Submitted to the Maldivian parliament on 19 October, the bill would take overseas travel businesses out of the scope of the tax, refund GST collected since 1 October and release those businesses from any further obligations for that period. The repeal takes effect once the bill is passed, ratified, and published in the Government Gazette.

Otto de Vries, Executive Director of WTAAA, commented:

“This is the right decision, and we commend the Maldives Government for listening. Our members never disputed the Maldives’ right to tax tourism within its borders. What they could not accept was a model that asked businesses around the world to register, file and remit a foreign tax under their own banking, tax, consumer and privacy laws.”

Introduced under the Eighth Amendment to the GST Act, the regime required overseas travel businesses with no presence in the Maldives to register with the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), and to account for and remit GST on the value of their services. There was no registration threshold, so an advisor making a single Maldives booking was caught in the same way as a global booking platform, and one booking could trigger separate registrations for several businesses in the supply chain.

A coordinated global response

On 18 September, WTAAA joined the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) and the European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Associations (ECTAA) in a joint letter to the Maldives Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen. The associations asked, at a minimum, for a postponement, protection for existing bookings, and confirmation that disclosed agents selling on behalf of a tour operator would not have to register.

On 23 September, WTAAA member, the Association of Southern African Travel Advisors (ASATA), lodged a formal objection with MIRA, setting out why the regime could not operate alongside South African exchange-control, tax, consumer-protection and data-privacy law.

WTAAA remains ready to work with the Ministry of Tourism and MIRA until the repeal bill is passed. Until then, travel advisors and operators may wish to keep track of documentation relating to any payments made since 1 October.

“Travel advisors have spent years building demand for the Maldives, and they want to keep selling it. We urge the Maldivian authorities to gazette the bill without delay, and MIRA to make refunds quick and simple for every business that paid in good faith,” de Vries added.

Published in Government Gazette No. 55542 on 16 October 2026, the extension is scheduled to take effect on 26 October 2026.

FEDHASA is calling on affected restaurant owners and hospitality employers to participate in the legal application and contribute towards the associated legal costs.

“FEDHASA understands the importance of fair employment practices and the role of collective bargaining in the hospitality sector. Our concern is not with the agreement itself, but with ensuring that the process by which it is extended to non-parties meets the legal requirements that exist to protect all affected parties, including employers who were not part of the original negotiations. We believe these questions deserve proper consideration by the courts,” said Brett Tungay, FEDHASA National Chairperson.

Implications for restaurant operators

The agreement introduces a range of employment-related obligations for affected businesses, including:

• Prescribed minimum wages, ranging from the national minimum wage of R30.23 per hour to R57.23 per hour for certain categories, including chefs and managers.
• Employer contributions of 5% towards the Council’s Provident Fund, in addition to the employee contribution.
• Contributions towards a funeral scheme.
• A uniform cleaning allowance of R17.50 per week.
• A minimum annual bonus equivalent to two weeks’ salary.
• Council levies of R16 per employee per month, shared between employer and employee, and a R25 monthly levy per establishment payable by the employer.

The association recognises that the restaurant industry encompasses a wide range of businesses, from large groups and independent restaurants to family-owned establishments, small cafés and tourism-dependent operators. Regulatory requirements can have meaningfully different consequences for businesses with different resources, turnover and staffing structures, and this diversity warrants careful consideration. FEDHASA encourages members to seek appropriate advice regarding their individual circumstances.

Legal process and next steps

FEDHASA has previously engaged with a similar matter, with the Labour Court granting an interdict on 2 March 2021. The association is now coordinating a fresh urgent legal application in respect of the current extension.

The outcome will be determined by the Labour Court, and FEDHASA will pursue the matter through the appropriate legal channels. The association is committed to engaging constructively with all relevant stakeholders throughout this process.

“FEDHASA has a responsibility to its members and to the broader hospitality sector to ensure that questions of this nature receive proper legal consideration. We are not seeking confrontation – we are seeking clarity. Where legitimate concerns exist about whether legal requirements have been met, it is appropriate to ask the courts to make that determination,” said Tungay.

Industry participation

Given the short period before the extension is due to take effect, FEDHASA is asking affected restaurant owners and hospitality employers to consider joining the proposed interdict application.

FEDHASA is also asking members and affected businesses to consider contributing towards the legal costs of the application. Broad participation will be important in enabling the industry to pursue an effective legal challenge within the available timeframe. Details of the appointed attorneys, participation requirements and cost arrangements will be provided directly to interested businesses.

Businesses wishing to participate should complete FEDHASA’s online form by no later than 17:00 on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

“We recognise that this is a significant ask at short notice, and we are grateful to the members and businesses who are willing to engage with this process. The hospitality industry has shown resilience and solidarity in the face of many challenges. We hope that spirit will carry through here as well,” said Tungay.

FEDHASA will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders and keep members informed of developments as the legal process proceeds.

A History of Support and Good Faith

From the outset, SATSA has been supportive of the Minister when she assumed office, and of Nombulelo Guliwe when she was appointed CEO of South African Tourism. We saw these milestones as an opportunity to reset and strengthen the foundations of the sector. We embraced the chance for constructive collaboration, with optimism that a genuine partnership built on trust, accountability, and shared vision could unlock growth for tourism and deliver lasting benefits to South Africa. Our stance was never oppositional; it was grounded in good faith, professionalism, and a clear commitment to serve the industry and the country.

To understand the seriousness of the current situation, it is important to reflect on the history of the Boards that have served under the Minister’s tenure, and the path that has led us here.

Timeline of South African Tourism Board Appointments (2023–2025)

• 7 March 2023: Patricia de Lille appointed Minister of Tourism.
• April 2023: Mass resignation of eight Board members, including the Chairperson, left the Board inquorate. On 21 April, the Minister dissolved the Board by notice in the Government Gazette and appointed three interim members: Ms Kholeka Zama (who was reappointed in the new interim structure of 22 August 2025), Mr Tim Harris, and Mr Vincent Zwelibanzi Mntambo.
• 28 February 2024: Cabinet approved the appointment of a new 10-member Board, as well as the appointment of Ms Guliwe as CEO for a five-year term. These appointments were subsequently Gazetted.
• 3–9 September 2024: The Minister raised concerns about Board meeting costs and removed the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson from their roles.
• September 2024: At this time, SATSA CEO David Frost recommended Oupa Pilane for the role of Chairperson, noting his extensive experience chairing the SATSA Board and previously the Kruger Lowveld Tourism Board. Despite these credentials, the Minister appointed Prof Gregory Davids as Chairperson, an academic with no substantive board or tourism industry experience. No Deputy Chair was appointed.
• 27 September 2024: A new Board was constituted. This was not an inherited Board but one of the Minister’s own choosing.
• April 2025: An independent forensic report was tabled, undertaken on the instruction of the previous Board, following the Auditor-General’s findings in 2024. Acting within its 90-day timeframe, as per labour law guidelines, the now dissolved Board considered this report, which directly implicated the CEO in alleged irregular spending.
• 17 July 2025: Following several failed interventions with the Chairperson, and after raising this matter as a concern with the Minister (with no response), the Board passed a Vote of No Confidence against the Chairperson, Prof Gregory Davids, and unanimously voted for his resignation. The Minister failed to appoint either a new Chairperson or an Acting Chairperson despite being asked to do so by the Board. It is important to note that the interim Board appointed this past week (22 August 2025) includes both a Chairperson and a Deputy Chair.
• 13 August 2025: The Board ultimately took the difficult but necessary step of suspending the CEO, based on the independent forensic report findings and allegations of unfair labour practices.
• 19 August 2025: Rather than support the Board’s lawful and justifiable actions, the Minister dissolved it, citing an alleged meeting on 1 August, a claim the Board categorically denied. Unlike the 2023 dissolution, this decision has not been Gazetted, raising further concerns about due process.

The Board’s Fiduciary Duties

Despite repeated obstacles, the Board carried out its fiduciary responsibilities with diligence and integrity. It acted transparently and kept the Minister informed.

It is our clear legal interpretation that a Board can continue to perform its fiduciary duties provided there is a quorum, regardless of whether a Chair is in place. Acting within this mandate, the Board pursued the appropriate course of action.

Rather than support these steps towards accountability, the Minister dissolved the Board on a baseless and spurious technicality, citing the alleged 1 August meeting. She has since attempted to portray the Board as acting in a destabilising manner, which is implausible.

Good Governance

The Minister’s actions reveal a deeply troubling and sustained pattern of ministerial overreach, interference, and inconsistency. By refusing to appoint a Deputy Chair (which she is mandated to do under the Tourism Act), she deliberately weakened the Board’s governance capacity and undermined its ability to carry out fiduciary duties. By dissolving the Board without Gazetting the decision, she not only sidestepped due process but also acted outside the bounds of established legal and governance frameworks.

By blocking South African Tourism from participating in international trade shows until a return-on-investment study is completed, a task that properly falls within the mandate of the Board and its executives and not the Minister, she has jeopardised South Africa’s credibility, competitiveness, and standing in the global market. Such actions are not merely procedural lapses; they represent a direct threat to good governance and to the economic prospects of the tourism sector. An example of how this is already playing out is South Africa’s absence from the International Golf Travel Market this October. It sends a damaging signal to global buyers that South Africa is closed for business in a lucrative niche where competitors such as Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and Mauritius are aggressively building market share.

Our Position

SATSA stands firmly behind the dissolved Board members, our colleagues, peers, and industry leaders, who acted with competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to South Africa. These are individuals of the highest calibre, motivated not by politics or malice but by service to our industry and country.

We urge the Minister to reverse her decision, to desist from political interference, and to restore stability by allowing the Board and executives of South African Tourism to carry out their responsibilities. We fully support the Board’s right to pursue legal recourse and believe this step is justified and necessary.

Conclusion

Taking this stance is not easy. Yet SATSA has always stood for truth and accountability, as we did in past battles on the red list, unabridged birth certificates, and visa regulations.

This crisis is not of the Board’s making, nor of TBCSA’s, nor of SATSA’s. It rests squarely with the Minister’s actions. The perception is that in choosing to protect one individual at the expense of governance and trust, she risks doing irreparable damage to the very fabric of our sector.

SATSA remains resolute in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of South African tourism. We stand behind the Board, our people, until this matter is resolved.

The agreement, signed during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Africa, marks Accor’s market entry into Zimbabwe, leveraging a first-mover advantage in one of Africa’s most iconic destinations and underscoring the Group’s commitment to pioneering development in emerging markets.

Scheduled to open in 2028, the 111-key new-build property will be developed under a management agreement with Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust, a Development REIT focused on high-quality assets across tourism, hospitality, health, retail, and residential sectors.

Located in the Eagle Heights precinct, in a prime location overlooking the Masuwe River, the hotel will blend natural beauty with Novotel’s modern, family-friendly hospitality. Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully designed experience, with facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, kids’ club, all-day dining restaurant, and destination bar – designed to meet the needs of modern travellers seeking comfort, connection, and local discovery.

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders”, Victoria Falls is not only a dramatic natural wonder but also a world-renowned hub for adventure tourism, offering white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and scenic helicopter flights.

“This signing represents a bold step forward in our development strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Maya Ziade, Chief Development Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa & Türkiye at Accor. “Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations, and we are proud to bring the Novotel brand experience to Zimbabwe for the very first time. As a first mover, we see this project as a gateway to long-term sustainable growth in the country.”

The signing signals a strategic entry for Accor into a destination with growing regional and domestic tourism and a limited presence of global hotel brands.

Bevin Ngara, Managing Director of Eagle Asset Managers, the Eagle REIT Fund Managers, added: “We are delighted to partner with Accor to bring an international standard of hospitality to Victoria Falls. This project reflects our vision of investing in transformative developments that elevate tourism and deliver value to local communities and investors alike.”

Novotel, with over 590 hotels across 68 countries and 180+ more in the pipeline, champions balanced living for both business travellers and families. As the first internationally branded Novotel in Zimbabwe, the hotel will meet the rising demand for high-quality yet accessible accommodation in Victoria Falls supporting the city’s evolution into a year-round destination for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

Pullman Cape Town has appointed Melissa Stevens as its new Executive Chef – a move that reinforces the hotel’s growing reputation as one of the city’s most food-forward hospitality brands.

With years of experience in some of South Africa’s most notable kitchens, including at Morgenster Estate, Stevens will step into her new role leading all culinary operations across the Pullman Cape Town property, from curated events to everyday dining experiences.

“My cooking has always been about comfort and connection,” says Stevens. “This role is an opportunity to bring that philosophy into an iconic space, with menus that evolve with seasonality while staying rooted in both simplicity and bold flavour.”

Her arrival comes at a pivotal moment for Pullman Cape Town’s food & beverage identity, which has continued to evolve since its inception in 2023. For example, the hotel recently opened Konnichiwa (a Japanese-style sushi bar already drawing local regulars) and participated in Restaurant Week South Africa.

Pullman Cape Town currently employs more women than men across its team – including several heads of department – making it well-positioned to support Accor’s Global commitment to gender equity through initiatives like #SheLeads. The programme celebrates inclusive leadership across Africa and the Middle East by spotlighting diverse voices shaping tomorrow’s hospitality landscape.

“As Cape Town grows its reputation on the global stage, we’re evolving with it – not just through design or service, but through who leads our spaces,” added Damons. “Our vision is rooted in inclusion. We believe diverse teams create richer experiences for everyone who walks through our doors.”

With brand-new menus being rolled out under Stevens’ guidance this season, guests won’t have to wait long to get a taste of what she brings to the table.

From elevated all-day dining at Stratus Room to handcrafted cocktails at Ghibli Bar & Rooftop Terrace and sushi-forward plates at Konnichiwa Lounge, Pullman Cape Town continues to strengthen its position as one of the city’s most dynamic hospitality and culinary destinations. The hotel also offers seven fully flexible meeting and event spaces, making it a preferred choice for those looking to balance business with lifestyle in the heart of Cape Town. Reservations for Stratus Room can be made via Dineplan. The restaurant is open from 06h30 – 22h00 daily.

Opening this March at Pullman Cape Town, Konnichiwa brings a laid-back yet flavourful take on sushi to the heart of the city. Ideally located at street level, it’s a relaxed spot to slip into between exploring Cape Town’s galleries, markets, and historic streets—whether it’s a quick meal before an afternoon of sightseeing, a long lunch soaking up the city’s energy, or an easy dinner before heading upstairs to Ghibli Bar for sundowners. Fresh, laid-back, and welcoming to all, Konnichiwa keeps things relaxed with a no-reservations policy.

A Taste of Connection in the Heart of Cape Town

In Japanese culture, Konnichiwa isn’t just “hello” – it’s about bringing people together over food and shared moments. That same spirit defines everything at Pullman’s newest culinary concept, from beautifully prepared sushi plates to its relaxed setting that encourages spontaneous get-togethers.

Located just off Bree Street – one of Cape Town’s most buzzing culinary hubs – Konnichiwa boasts fantastic al fresco seating where you can soak up the city energy while enjoying fresh, made-to-order sushi right before your eyes.”

While Konnichiwa brings an exciting new dining concept to Pullman Cape Town, our signature hotel offering of quality coffee, fresh pastries, light meals and wines remains unchanged. This welcoming corner continues to serve both hotel guests and Capetonians throughout the day.

Casual Sushi Craftsmanship by chef Ernest Tsosane

At Konnichiwa’s helm is acclaimed Shokunin (chef) Ernest Tsosane – a chef whose career spans some of South Africa’s most celebrated Asian restaurants, including Nikkei Japanese Peruvian (Cape Town), as well as Johannesburg favourites Koi and Tang. His culinary pedigree also includes time at Nobu Cape Town and Genki Stellenbosch.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce this concept,” says Chef Ernest. “Our menu blends classic favourites such as sashimi and nigiri with Rainbow Rolls and Wagyu Aburi – all prepared to order daily using only the finest sustainably sourced ingredients. Guests can watch us at work from our sushi counter, which is visible from the street.”

Konnichiwa’s menu offers a refined selection of Japanese-inspired dishes, complemented by a full beverage offering. Delicate sashimi features salmon, tuna, prawn, and buttery langoustine, paired with expertly crafted nigiri like wagyu aburi. California rolls range from beloved classics to the signature Rainbow Roll, while maki and crisp handrolls highlight fresh, vibrant flavors. For something unique, the new-style sashimi introduces citrus-infused seafood options for added depth.

At Pullman Cape Town City Centre, Table Mountain views and world-class hospitality now come with an added layer of assurance – certification as one of the safest hotels in the world. The hotel has achieved Safehotels Premium Certification, placing it among the world’s most secure and well-prepared properties, where exceptional safety protocols meet uncompromising attention to guest wellbeing.

Safehotels conducts independent audits to certify hotels that meet the highest security standards, work with leading international hotel chains and are recognised by corporate travellers and hotel buyers worldwide. Through partnerships with International SOS, a global leader in Health & Security Risk Management, and endorsements from organisations such as the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the certification is widely trusted as a benchmark for safety and preparedness.

Safehotels operates in 71 countries across 203 cities and is trusted by some of the world’s biggest hotel brands. Their Global Hotel Security Standard evaluates over 230 criteria on-site – including water quality testing, food hygiene protocols, fire prevention systems, emergency response plans, and staff training – to ensure internationally recognised safety standards.

“What sets Safehotels certification apart is its holistic approach. From the moment guests step into Pullman Cape Town, they’re wrapped in an invisible blanket of care that extends far beyond the usual hospitality touchpoints. While they might not see the measures that make their stay safer, they’ll feel the difference – whether they’re here for an adventure-packed holiday, a cruise stopover, or a business trip that needs to run like clockwork,” says Jaco Bekker, Security Manager at Pullman Cape Town City Centre.

“Achieving Safehotels Premium Certification demonstrates our commitment to going the extra mile regarding guest safety and wellbeing,” adds Bekker. “For corporate clients needing to demonstrate they are fulfilling duty-of-care obligations when sending employees abroad, as well as families simply seeking a relaxing holiday, this Safehotels certification provides a globally recognised standard of assurance regarding guest wellbeing.”

Safehotels certification aligns with Accor’s commitment to redefining hospitality across Africa. With ten more Accor properties set to achieve certification by 2025, Pullman Cape Town is helping set new global standards for guest wellbeing.

“As the first Pullman brand in South Africa by the Accor Group, we achieved Premium status within a year of opening. But Safehotels is about more than just compliance – it’s about our passion for hospitality and ensuring that every guest feels secure and comfortable from the moment they arrive,” explains Willie Williams, Area Director of Sales & Marketing at Accor – Pullman Cape Town.

“Our guests are here to enjoy Cape Town at its best. They should be able to focus on making memories rather than worrying about safety or health concerns. This certification reflects our dedication to providing peace of mind so guests can fully enjoy everything this incredible city offers,” he adds.

“When a guest stays with us, they can rest assured that everything – from water quality and hotel dining to the rooftop pool and food hygiene in our four restaurants and bars – meets the highest international standards of fire, life, and safety,” concludes Williams.

“We are delighted to see someone of Darryl’s calibre and extensive tourism experience take up this crucial role at SA Tourism,” says Rosemary Anderson, National Chairperson of FEDHASA. “His wealth of experience in tourism and hospitality, coupled with his proven track record in both the public and private sectors, makes him an excellent choice for this position.”

Erasmus brings valuable industry expertise from his previous roles with SA Tourism, Travelport, Protea Hotels, and Intercontinental Hotels, among others. 

“As our industry stands poised for growth, this strategic appointment at SA Tourism is particularly significant,” adds Anderson. “His understanding of both operational and strategic aspects of tourism will be invaluable in driving initiatives that create sustainable employment opportunities in our sector.”

“FEDHASA looks forward to working closely with Erasmus and the SA Tourism team. By implementing necessary strategies together, we can create substantial employment opportunities in tourism across our country and further strengthen South Africa’s position as a premier global tourism destination.”

***ENDS***

About FEDHASA 

Founded in 1949, a restructured and transformed FEDHASA (Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa) is recognised by Government as the official representative of the hospitality industry of South Africa. With industry support, FEDHASA remains the umbrella association for hotels, restaurants, conference centres, caterers, self-catering accommodation, home hosting establishments (B&Bs and guest houses), clubs, taverns, shebeens, suppliers and trainers, consultants and service providers to the hospitality industry. For more information, visit https://fedhasa.co.za/ 

In line with this year-round agreement, Air Belgium will operate direct flights from Johannesburg (JNB) to Brussels (BRU) on Mondays and Thursdays. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, a connection from JNB to BRU via Mauritius (MRU) will be available, offering a transit or stopover option in Mauritius. The direct routes ex Johannesburg and ex Mauritius will be serviced by Air Belgium’s highly-regarded A330-900neo aircraft, known for its superior service quality and comfort.

Air Belgium, having established a strong footprint in Southern Africa through its partnerships with Airlink and FlyCemair, now offers even more comprehensive regional connections. The expanded interline agreement with Air Mauritius enables Air Belgium to present South African travellers with a wider variety of exciting travel options.

Niky Terzakis, CEO of Air Belgium, commented on the partnership: “Our collaboration with Air Mauritius opens a new chapter of enhanced service for South African travellers. This, coupled with our existing partnerships with Airlink and FlyCemair, underscores our dedication to offering diverse and seamless travel experiences to our valued customers.”

Air Belgium continues its commitment to evolving the travel experience, delivering exceptional service, enticing destinations, and smooth connectivity. This latest interline agreement invites South African travellers to embark on a journey that combines the distinct allure of the Indian Ocean and the unique charm of Belgium in one trip.

For further information and bookings, please visit Air Belgium’s official website www.airbelgium.com.

I am writing to request an urgent briefing meeting with you following the UK’s announcement on Tuesday
14th December that it would be lifting travel restrictions to South Africa on the basis that “now there is
community transmission of Omicron in the UK… a travel ban is now less effective in slowing the incursion
of Omicron from abroad”.

While we recognise the rapid introduction of a travel ban was an early necessity to buy governments time
to assess the Omicron risk, we are now calling for the EU to re-instate travel between South Africa and
your countries on the basis that high infection rates in over 50 countries across the world mean a person
is as likely to catch the omicron variant in Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels or Paris or as they are in
Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Travel bans have become redundant in the face of this reality.

I know you are well aware of the importance of tourism to South Africa and the Southern African region.
I cannot overstate the negative impact this travel ban is having on our industry, local communities, and
conservation efforts, particularly over our all-important Christmas holiday period.
In a typical year, national income from tourism in South Africa is €16 billion supporting 726 000 direct
jobs and in total 1.5 million jobs directly and indirectly.

We know already that when the travel ban was announced on 25th November our sector lost €51 million
in the first 48 hours due to cancelled international bookings. We estimate this could increase to €1.4
billion if the bans continue, resulting in 205 000 fewer annual jobs supported by the tourism industry.

While we fully recognise the risk Covid continues to present and the understandable concerns around
the transmissibility of Omicron, I would draw your attention to the recent findings from the first realworld assessment of the variant which was published this week by South Africa’s largest private health
insurer, Discovery Health in collaboration with the South African Medical Research Council.

This research, based on 78,000 positive Omicron Covid cases in South Africa between 15th November and
7th December revealed that two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine continue to confer a 70% protection
against severe complications from Omicron and that the risk of hospitalisation among all adults is 29%
lower for those with the Omicron variant, compared to the ancestral variant that originated in China.
Particularly encouraging is that the data indicates that 70% of hospital admissions are unvaccinated and
that there are clear signs that hospitalisation rates are not tracking community transmission in the way
they did in the previous three waves.

In light of the on-going discussions on this matter at the highest levels in Europe, and the facts above,
which we believe make a compelling and rational case for the lifting of the travel ban to South Africa, we
urgently request a meeting with you to discuss this critical issue so that European Union travel restrictions
can be lifted as soon as possible
Yours sincerely,