The Malawi Revenue Authority Says hotel, lodges and Inns will now be importing duty free building materials and equipment. The development is in line with the new Custom and Excise policy. Corporate Affairs Manager for the Malawi Revenue Authority Steve Kapoloma has told Zodiak on Monday the move eyes on bringing more investors hence promoting tourism. “The purpose of this measure is to see the hospitality industry booming by providing opportunity for local as well as foreigners to enjoy the higher level of hospitality in Malawi,” he said. Furniture, gym equipment’s, industrial catering equipment’s, motor boats are some of the items to see the duty free benefits. Economic Expert Chiku Kalilombe has hailed the development, adding it can attract more tourists but has advised on the need to create leverage. “We are using tax incentives to boost a sector that we have not fully utilized the potential of. As long as used rightly we should get some leverage over this and create a good operating environment thus attracting more tourists into higher accommodation units,” he said. However, the customs and excise order will be applied to Malawian investors with at least ,20 ensuite rooms and foreign investors with 50 rooms ensuite. The tourism industry is the third foreign exchange earner in Malawi after tobacco and tea, hence contributing to the economic and social development of the country.