Tanzania Cuts Tourism Licence Fees to Stimulate Local Investment and Conservation
Tanzania has announced a reduction in licensing fees for local investors in the accommodation and tour sectors as part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and empower domestic businesses. Presenting the 2025/26 budget to Parliament, Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Dr Pindi Chana confirmed that five-star hotels will now pay $1,500—down from $2,500—for a tourism business licence. Additional fee cuts include reduced registration for mountain climbing agencies and annual tour guide licences, with all payments now required in Tanzanian shillings.
The government is also waiving park entry fees for licensed tour guides and increasing funding to fight poaching and enhance wildlife protection. The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) and Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) will receive TSh17 billion and TSh18.48 billion respectively, with part of TANAPA’s allocation going toward a modern control room in Serengeti National Park. These reforms form part of ten strategic priorities for the coming fiscal year, centred on expanding tourism, improving conservation infrastructure, and easing regulatory barriers for local operators.
Source: The Eastleigh Voice