Mozambique’s tourism sector recorded strong performance over the Christmas and New Year period, attracting 311,700 tourists and generating revenue of approximately €22.7 million ($26.5 million USD), according to the National Director of Trade and Service Provision at the Ministry of Economy, Joel Nhassengo.
Speaking on Wednesday, January 7, during the presentation of the Preliminary Holiday Season Report, Nhassengo noted that the number of tourists exceeded expectations by 2.3%. Since December 15, the country hosted 199 New Year’s events, mainly in coastal destinations, where resort occupancy rates ranged from 33% to 100%.
“The festive season proceeded smoothly, with normal economic activity. Some minor incidents occurred, mainly due to increased road and cross-border traffic, but authorities responded promptly through coordinated measures,” Nhassengo said.
The Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique (CTA) highlighted the boost in tourism and trade during the festive season, praising security forces for ensuring the safe movement of people and goods. Vasco Manhiça, head of CTA’s Tourism Department, noted that strong demand was driven by beach resorts, safaris, cultural tourism, and nature tourism—the most sought-after segments.
“This marks a rebound from last year, when the sector was affected by post-election protests and was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Manhiça added.
Meanwhile, the National Economic Activities Inspectorate (INAE) reported suspending 93 establishments, mostly restaurants and bars, for failing to comply with hygiene and safety standards. More than 54,900 units of expired or improperly stored products were destroyed.
Abel Bilal, INAE’s Director of Operations, also confirmed 312 complaints of irregularities during inspections of 4,417 economic units, with at least 2,012 establishments receiving guidance on safety and hygiene measures. Additionally, around 5,400 boxes of alcoholic beverages remain held pending destruction due to non-compliance.
The data underscores the growing importance of tourism in Mozambique’s economy, with coastal and cultural destinations continuing to attract significant visitor numbers.
Source: Diário Económico / Lusa
