I’ll push for level playing field with Zimbabwe in tourism sector – L/stone aspiring MP

Livingstone, Zambia – Gracian Mutale, the aspiring Member of Parliament for Livingstone Central under the United Party for National Development (UPND) banner, has voiced a strong commitment to championing a level playing field for Zambian tourism operators, especially in relation to their counterparts across the border in Zimbabwe. Mutale underscored the critical importance of fair competition to ensure the sustainable growth and prosperity of Zambia's vital tourism industry. Speaking to local media, Mutale articulated his vision for a more equitable operational environment, particularly in the highly competitive Victoria Falls tourism hub. "We need a level playing field in the tourism sector with regards to tour operations with our neighbouring Zimbabwean tour operators," Mutale stated. He emphasized that current disparities often place Zambian businesses at a disadvantage, affecting their ability to attract international tourists and generate substantial revenue within the country. The aspiring MP's concerns resonate deeply within the Livingstone business community, where operators frequently lament the perceived advantages enjoyed by Zimbabwean companies, ranging from differing regulatory frameworks to variations in operational costs and marketing strategies. Zambian tour operators argue that these discrepancies make it challenging to compete effectively for the same tourist dollar, despite the fact that both countries share the iconic Victoria Falls. Mutale pledged that if elected, he would actively engage with relevant government ministries, including the Ministry of Tourism and Arts, and regional bodies to review existing bilateral agreements and policies. His objective would be to identify and rectify policies that inadvertently create an uneven playing field. This could involve harmonizing regulations, advocating for reciprocal benefits, or exploring incentives to bolster Zambian-owned tourism enterprises. Furthermore, Mutale's focus extends beyond just