The private sector is calling for increased investment, infrastructure improvements, and streamlined administrative procedures to accelerate tourism growth and position Mozambique as a reference destination in Africa.

According to the Lusa news agency, the position was presented by Álvaro Massingue, president of the Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique (CTA), during the second edition of the Mozambique Tourism Summit in Inhambane, where he appealed for greater collaboration between the government and the business community to improve the business environment and facilitate project licensing.

“We call for greater collaboration with the government, contributing to the improvement of the business environment through the simplification of procedures, the facilitation of licensing, and the joint construction of solutions to the operational challenges faced by investors,” he said.

Four priorities to develop tourism

Álvaro Massingue argued that the country possesses competitive advantages, including beaches, biodiversity, nature parks, cultural heritage, and a strategic location in Southern Africa. The challenge, he explained, lies in transforming these assets into investment opportunities, business activity, and wealth creation.

The CTA president identified four priorities to accelerate development of the sector. The first is the expansion of private investment and diversification of supply, encompassing hotels, resorts, marinas, nature tourism, convention centres, nautical activities, and cultural experiences.

“We call for greater collaboration with the government, contributing to the improvement of the business environment through the simplification of procedures, the facilitation of licensing, and the joint construction of solutions to the operational challenges faced by investors.” — Álvaro Massingue

The second priority is the improvement of connectivity and supporting infrastructure, with interventions in air, road, and maritime links, as well as energy, water, sanitation, and digital connectivity services.

“International experience shows that the most competitive tourist destinations combine natural attractions with ease of access and quality of services,” he stressed.

Domestic companies should benefit from investments

The CTA also advocates for greater integration of tourism with other sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture, fisheries, transport, construction, the food industry, handicrafts, culture, and technology.

In this context, Álvaro Massingue stated that the organisation intends to bring large investors closer to domestic companies through partnerships, the development of supply chains, and workforce skills development.

“We want every new tourism venture to also represent a growth opportunity for dozens of national companies,” he declared.

The fourth priority identified by the CTA president relates to improving the business environment and strengthening investor confidence. Massingue argued that simplified procedures and administrative efficiency are decisive factors in increasing the country’s capacity to attract both domestic and foreign capital.

The CTA’s position comes as President Daniel Chapo announced the elevation of Inhambane to National Tourism Capital, designating the province as the country’s primary tourism development hub.