The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) will commence its annual nationwide enforcement exercise on Tuesday, September 17, 2023.The exercise is aimed at closing down tourism establishments that have failed to remit the required 1% Tourism Levy. This warning was issued by the Deputy CEO for Operations at GTA, Mr. Ekow Sampson.

0

This enforcement initiative is conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Tourism Act of 2011 (Act 817) and will extend to unregistered and unlicensed tourism enterprises. The initial phase of the exercise will target regions, including Greater Accra and Tema, Eastern Region, Ashanti Region, Central Region, and Western Region, with the remaining regions to follow at a later time.

1

The GTA is legally mandated by the Tourism Act 817 to register and license a wide range of tourism enterprises, encompassing hotels, spas, guest houses, serviced apartments, hostels, home lodges, restaurants, fast-food establishments, traditional catering facilities (chop bars), drinking bars, travel agencies, entertainment centers, banquet halls, conference facilities, pubs, nightclubs, tour companies, and car rental services.

2

Hence, all tourism establishments, including AirBnB operators without a valid GTA license, must promptly initiate the registration process. Those already holding licenses are required to settle any outstanding levies prior to the enforcement phase.Mr. Ekow Sampson conveyed these details during a press briefing on Monday, October 16, with further information to be provided.

3