FHRAI welcomes Andhra Pradesh's Innovative Tourism Policy 2024-26

The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has expressed its support for the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-29, highlighting its potential to transform the state's tourism sector. Key features of the policy include granting Industry Status to tourism and hospitality, offering significant incentives such as stamp duty reimbursements and capital subsidies, and promoting sustainable practices.

The policy aims to boost tourist expenditure, increase the room inventory from 3,500 to 10,000, and attract private investments totalling  Rs 25,000 crore. It also emphasises eco-friendly initiatives, such as the development of zero-emission zones and Blue Flag-certified beaches, alongside robust skill development programs for local communities.

Reacting to this development, K Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, further stated, “Andhra Pradesh has taken a giant leap in Tourism and Hospitality. Recognising tourism as an industry, combined with substantial incentives for private investors and a focus on thematic circuits, will elevate the state’s appeal to tourists. With its emphasis on sustainability and community empowerment, this policy has the potential to create significant economic and employment opportunities. FHRAI is keen to collaborate with the state government to achieve these ambitious goals.” 

Additionally, the policy sets ambitious objectives to enhance tourism's share in the state's GVA from 4.6 per cent to 8 per cent by 2029, while also expanding employment contributions. The strategic framework includes seven major tourism hubs and the establishment of a single-window system for project approvals. FHRAI views this policy as a significant step toward enhancing investment and creating job opportunities in the state's tourism sector.