Stakeholders in Goa’s hospitality industry have welcomed the state government’s Budget announcement, which promises a 50% rebate on state Goods and Services Tax (GST) along with several incentives for those investing in hotels located in the state’s hinterland.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, while presenting the state Budget during the previous legislative assembly session, outlined key measures aimed at encouraging infrastructure development in hospitality and medical tourism sectors.
The proposal included a significant tax rebate, exemption from stamp duty and registration charges, and waiver on various processing fees for investors establishing three-star and above category hotels or hospitals in hinterland talukas such as Bicholim, Sanguem, Canacona, Quepem, Dharbandora, Ponda, and Sattari.
The Budget is set to be passed during the next House session scheduled for June. Industry representatives have responded positively, viewing the move as a major step towards decentralising tourism and encouraging sustainable growth. Gaurish Dhond, President of the Goa Hotel and Restaurant Association, applauded the initiative, saying it would support the development of both hospitality and medical tourism in underdeveloped areas.
