Important Notice: Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) Required by 7 December 2025

Hospitality businesses operating within certain building types must comply with the national requirement to obtain and display an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) by 7 December 2025, as mandated by the National Energy Act (No. 34 of 2008). Which Buildings Require an EPC? Applicable Building Use Types (Occupancy Classes): What is the Purpose of an EPC? An EPC rates your […]
FEDHASA welcomes Minister Schreiber’s landmark Visa announcement
New STAGES and MEETS visas set to unlock billions in film and MICE sectors The Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA) applauds the introduction of two new visa categories – the Screen Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme (STAGES) for the film sector and the Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme (MEETS) for the meetings, […]
Home Affairs extends ZEP deadline until 28 November 2025
The latest Government Gazette, published on November 29, 2024, includes significant updates from the Department of Home Affairs regarding the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders. For further inquiries regarding this directive, individuals are encouraged to contact the Department’s Contact Centre via email at hacc@dha.gov.za. Find the full directive here:
Tourism Industry Insights: September-October 2024 Report

Tourist Accommodation Performance In September 2024, the tourist accommodation industry demonstrated robust growth, with total income increasing by 8.6% compared to the previous year. Key highlights include: Primary contributors to growth were: The third quarter of 2024 saw a 9.0% increase in accommodation income compared to 2023, with other accommodation and hotels leading the expansion. […]
Call for Nominations: Chairpersons for Sector Education and Training Authorities (2025–2030)

Dr NP Nkabane, Minister of Higher Education and Training, has issued a call for nominations for the appointment of Chairpersons of Accounting Authorities for 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). The selected individuals will serve a five-year term, from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2030, in accordance with the Skills Development Act, 1998 […]
Building tomorrow: Integrating Grade 12 tourism learners into the Western Cape industry

Our industry faces a pivotal moment as we approach the 2024 National Tourism Senior Certificate Examination on Thursday, 14 November. With 22,000 Grade 12 learners in the Western Cape preparing to write their final tourism examinations, we must address a crucial question: How will we integrate these young minds into our growing tourism sector? Understanding […]
TGCSA Workshops: Shaping the Future of Tourism Standards

Join the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) for two essential workshops in the Western Cape this November as part of the triannual review of grading criteria. These sessions present a unique chance for stakeholders to play an active role in shaping the future of tourism standards in South Africa. Don’t miss this opportunity […]
StatsSA Tourist Accommodation & Food & Beverage reports for August 2024

Below a copy of the StatsSA Tourist Accommodation and Food & Beverage reports for August 2024 1] StatsSA Tourist Accommodation reports for August 2024 Download addresses – Tourist accommodation – Key findings – https://www.statssa.gov.za/?page_id=1856&PPN=P6410&SCH=73728 Tourist accommodation – Full publication – https://www.statssa.gov.za/publications/P6410/P6410August2024.pdf Key findings: P6410 – Tourist Accommodation August 2024 Measured in nominal terms (current prices), […]
INVITATION TO TGCSA GRADING CRITERIA CONSULTATIONS

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) is undergoing its triannual grading criteria review. The purpose of the study is to review and update the grading criteria, to ensure the continued relevance and effectiveness of the criteria and grading framework to enhance the quality of South Africa’s tourism offerings. New trends and consumer requirements […]
Hospitality industry facing phishing scam surge

The hotel industry, which relies heavily on technology to manage guest services and operations, has become a prime target for cybercriminals. Phishing—where attackers pose as legitimate entities to trick individuals into divulging confidential information—has become the method of choice for these criminals. These attacks aim to steal user credentials and sensitive guest information, such as […]