Minister welcomes Maritime Transport Policy

Friday, July 21, 2017

Tourism Minister Tokozile Xasa has welcomed the launch of the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy by the Department of Transport in Durban on Friday.

“Our National Tourism Sector Strategy identifies transport as an enabler of tourism growth and underlines the significance of collaboration between the Departments of Transport and Tourism in removing barriers to tourism growth.

“We therefore, take this opportunity to pledge our support to the launch of the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy,” said Minister Xasa.

The Department of Tourism appreciates the emphasis of the policy on the promotion of ship ownership through various finance mechanisms; maritime culture, heritage and tourism, safety and security of people, vessels and cargo, investigations of marine accidents and incidents, small vessels and inland waters.

“We are excited about the inclusion of small harbours towards developing the South African Maritime Transport Global Brand as part of maritime tourism.

“The use of small vessels and inland waters for tourism and recreational purposes is an area which can benefit from the harmonisation of mandates, monitoring and support,” the Minister said.

The policy also focusses on the cruise tourism market which has the potential to attract more tourists to South Africa thereby, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

“We remain committed to co-operation with the Department of Transport in the implementation of this Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy, as it also supports our Coastal and Marine Tourism Implementation Plan,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za