NOTE - this article has been updated to reflect the correct closing date for applications.

In a bid to alleviate the financial strain on tourism businesses seeking grading, the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) has declared the reinstatement of a grading support programme that will see tourism businesses qualify for an up to 90% discount on tourism grading fees.

The Tourism Grading Support Programme (TGSP) forms part of the Tourism Incentive Programme by the Department of Tourism and seeks to stimulate greater participation in the tourism grading system by reducing the cost burden of grading on small and emerging tourism enterprises.

Through the programme, the TGCSA also hopes to catalyse heightened conformity to quality standards in tourism, which will, in turn, enhance the overall visitor experience and improve South Africa's standing as a competitive and desirable tourism destination.

"While the tourism sector is making excellent progress with arrivals, we are fully aware that many businesses, especially the small and medium enterprises, still require support. For this reason, we have decided to reintroduce the TGSP,” said Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

The new window for the TGSP opened in December and will run until March 2024.

“We call on all prospective and existing members to take advantage of this exciting opportunity by applying," De Lille urged.

The programme offers substantial discounts on star-grading assessment fees for accommodation establishments and meeting venues. All qualifying applicants are eligible for an 80% discount on their grading assessment fees. Applicants with valid Tourism Marketing Levy South Africa membership will be eligible for an additional 10% discount.

Interested parties must fill out an online application form on the TGCSA website. Required supporting documents include:

• Copy of a current and valid SARS Tax Clearance Certificate  
• ID copy
• Copy of relevant business registration documents such as registration for closed company, private company or partnership agreements.
• Copy of B-BBBEE certificate or an affidavit in the case of exempt micro enterprises.
• Copy of public liability insurance.

New registrations need to be concluded no later than February 14. Renewing members who are eligible for the TGSP must apply if their assessment is approaching, while those whose membership has lapsed are encouraged to reapply also by no later than February 14.

During the 2021/2022 financial year, 2 647 establishments were supported through the TGSP. The total monetary value of this support was R13 million (€636 700) from the Department of Tourism, while the number of properties supported represents 73% of the number of graded establishments for that financial year.