Tourism Industry Calls for Tax Relief as Earthquake Fallout Hits Eje Cafetero
ANATO has asked the government for lower VAT and new credit lines after the August 10 earthquake left tourism businesses in Manizales and the coffee region struggling to stay afloat.
More than a month after the August 10 earthquake, Colombia's tourism sector is still feeling the impact, particularly in Manizales and the Eje Cafetero, where businesses have reported a notable drop in activity, according to reports published September 15.
The national travel and tourism association ANATO has formally requested government relief measures, including reduced VAT rates and access to credit lines, to help companies in the affected regions survive the downturn. Sector leaders warned that maintaining formal employment has become a serious challenge for many operators.
The difficulties come even as broader national tourism figures show growth in passenger numbers and foreign exchange revenues, highlighting an uneven recovery across the country's regions.
ANATO's appeal adds pressure on the de la Espriella administration to balance its austerity agenda with targeted support for an industry that is a significant source of jobs and income in Colombia's interior.
Reportado por El Paisa, nuestro corresponsal colombiano.
