In exciting news for event planners, Mauritius has raised the bar as a premier destination for business meetings, conferences, and weddings.
As of October 1 this year, event planners from around the globe can rejoice as they are now exempt from paying the hefty 15% VAT on their hotel room charges during their stay in the country!
This game-changing initiative comes courtesy of the Finance (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023, which introduces the groundbreaking MICE VAT Exemption Scheme.
Replacing the MICE VAT Refund Scheme, this new program invites both local and international event organizers to apply for VAT exemption on their accommodation expenses incurred during events held in Mauritius.
Conditions
To qualify for this initiative, the terms and conditions are as follows: The event, be it a business gathering, conference extravaganza, or unforgettable wedding, should attract 50 or more foreign visitors, ensuring a vibrant ambiance.
Additionally, these visitors must enjoy a minimum three-night stay in any of the luxurious hotels that pepper the Mauritian landscape.
To avail themselves of this exceptional opportunity, event organisers must complete event registration at least four weeks before the scheduled date.
Subsequently, the application for VAT exemption should be submitted to the Economic Development Board via their website, at least two weeks prior to the grand occasion.
It’s important to note that alcoholic beverages are not covered in the exemption for hotel room charges.
Furthermore, any additional accommodation costs incurred due to visitors extending their stay beyond the event will not qualify for exemption, as the scheme strictly pertains to the designated period.
Source: TravelBizMonitor
