Voluntary levy makes substantial impact

IN its first full financial year, the voluntary tourism levy has raised a total of R22 359 329 from all sectors of the industry, including tour operators, vehicle rental companies and accommodation establishments. While this is less than half of the R50m originally predicted, later downgraded to R35m because of the inability of airlines to collect the levy, the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBC) has nevertheless said that the private sector has now firmly established its role in the international tourism marketing process. TBC's deputy chairman, Glenn van Heerden, who is also chairman of the board of Tourism Marketing SA (TOMSA), says the private sector's contribution to tourism marketing funds has been crucial in the design and execution of the most ambitious promotional campaign in the country's history. The imminent airport departure tax - which comes online in November - will further supplement the amount of funds available for international marketing with funds from government already having been substantially increased in anticipation. "The TBCSA welcomes the airport tax," says executive director, Dr Tanya Abrahamse. All these contributions, including the voluntary levy, will help our industry to reach its full economic potential in the competitive global environment." For more information on the TOMSA levy, contact the TBCSA - 012-663 1417. (Elizabeth Sheridan)