The South African government has ordered a survey into hotel prices being charged during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, following allegations that rates are being excessively inflated.
UK-based chartered accountants Grant Thornton will carry out the survey, as well as benchmark South African hotel prices against those of previous host nations of the event.
South African minster of tourism, Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, is concerned that the reputation of South Africa as a value-for-money destination should be safeguarded.
“Price-hiking could damage the reputation of our tourism industry,” he said. “However, at the same time it must be kept in mind that June and July 2010 will be high season in South Africa, and tourists should not expect the normal low-season prices for that time of year.”
The Department of Tourism said that many of the high prices that have been cited have been for private apartments and houses for rent, as opposed to hotels.
Van Schalkwyk said he will discuss the results of the survey, which is expected within three weeks, with the tourism industry.
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By Janet Harmer
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