eBusiness Weekly
Business Writer
Export earnings from the hunting sector are projected to jump 200 percent in 2022, official statistic show, reflecting the recovery of tourism from the coronavirus.
Forex inflows are projected at US$9 million from US$3 million a year earlier, according to the Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe.
“The big jump reflects the relaxation of the Covid-19 restrictions and shows that the world has now settled,” said SOAZ chairman Dr Emmanuel Fundira in an interview last Friday.
The revenue does not include earnings from supporting industries such as airfares, restaurant freights, taxidermists, accommodation, and other support services.
“We are forecasting more visitors this year now that China has lifted all Covid-related restrictions.
“That’s a significant development given that churns out 150 million visitors per year.”
China lifted quarantine requirements for inbound travelers in January, ending almost three years of self-imposed isolation even as the country battles a surge in Covid cases.
The policy had a huge impact on the world’s second-biggest economy and generated resentment throughout society that led to nationwide protests just before it was eased.
According to Dr Fundira, the sanctions imposed on wealthy Russian businesspeople over Moscow’s war on Ukraine will also see hunting activities in Africa booming.
“We are already receiving inquiries and very soon we will see the traction,” said Dr Fundira.
Zimbabwe offers hunts for animals including, elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard.
In addition to paying for the license to track them down, tourists pay professional hunters to guide them. Elephants make up the bulk of the nation’s hunting licenses, according to Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.
In the first half of 2022, the country registered a 115 percent rise in tourist arrivals to 352 719, compared with the same period in 2021. Domestic visits to the national parks rose by 90 percent to 172 481 during the period from January to May 2022.
As a result, tourism receipts increased by 121 percent in 2022 to US$337,5 million, compared to the same period last year. The tourism industry is expected to continue to grow in outlook, benefiting from the recovery in international tourism, the coming in of new players in the aviation sector and meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. This year, tourist arrivals are expected to increase to 1.4 million in 2023, while tourism receipts are projected at US$623 million.
