MAPUTO, Oct 14 (NNN-Xinhua) — Mozambique’s President Filipe Nyusi launched the country’s 8th International Tourism Fair (FIKANI 2022) in Maputo, the nation’s capital, after a hiatus of two years due to COVID-19, in hopes of showcasing the potential and boosting the recovery of the country’s tourism sector.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, the president said the sector, once severely affected by the pandemic, has been showing signs of recovery following the economic acceleration measures recently taken by the government.
“Mozambique today regards itself as a leading player in the region’s tourist industry, offering reliable and quality services throughout the industry chain, with emphasis on the five main tourist destinations, namely Maputo, Vilanculos, Gorongosa, Quirimbas and Niassa,” he said.
Nyusi encouraged the national and international private sector to make use of the tax incentives for new investments in tourism, to invest more in the training and capacity building of tourism agents, and improve the quality of services.
The government announced in August a package of new policies on entry visas and periods of stay for foreigners intended to improve the country’s business environment and attract more visitors and investments.
“With these measures to open up and simplify the bureaucratic procedures, by 2024, international arrivals to our country can reach up to 10 million,” he said.
According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, FIKANI 2022 is expected to bring together more than 140 national and international exhibitors, attracting nearly 5,000 visitors. FIKANI 2022 is a joint initiative among the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the National Institute of Tourism, and the private sector, organized by the Hotel and Tourism Union. — NNN-XINHUA
