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Tourism Grading Support Programme

 Tourism Grading Support Programme

The Tourism Grading Support Programme was introduced to encourage wider participation in the tourism grading system and to reduce the cost burden of grading on small tourism enterprises. The programme also aims to stimulate an increase in conformity to quality standards in tourism which in turn will enhance the overall visitor experience and improve South Africa’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

The Tourism Grading Support Programme offers discounts of between 80% and 90% on the cost of star grading assessment fees for accommodation establishments and meeting venues. The programme is administered by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) on behalf of the Department of Tourism. The application process is integrated in the standard online application process of the TGCSA and is available to all new grading applicants as well as existing TGCSA members wishing to renew their grading membership.

To apply for tourism grading support (i.e. discount), a prospective applicant must complete the standard TGCSA application form online at www.tourismgrading.co.za​ and indicate by ticking the relevant box that they wish to apply for a discount on their grading assessment fees. Applicants wishing to apply for the discount will be prompted to upload the required supporting documents as part of their application. Supporting documents include a valid tax clearance certificate, confirmation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) status and proof of public liability insurance. All qualifying applicants will be eligible for 80% discount on their grading assessment fees, while applicants with valid (Tourism Marketing Levy South Africa) TOMSA membership will be eligible for an additional 10% discount.

Relevant documents and links for the Tourism Grading Support Programme.