Western Cape member of the executive council (MEC) of finance and economic opportunities, David Maynier welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to reopen international travel to all countries.

Ramaphosa’s Wednesday announcement meant all travellers wanting to visit South Africa can do so, subject to all necessary health protocols and the representation of a negative Covid-19 certificate.

On Thursday, Maynier said they had been calling for the ‘red list’ to be scrapped from the first day.

The ‘red list’ was a list of countries barred from entering into South Africa.

Maynier said the ‘red list’ was killing the key source markets for tourism in the Western Cape ahead of the summer season which caused confusion and uncertainty for those in the travel and tourism industry which was one of the hardest sectors hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.

He has also welcomed the relaxation of the restriction on sale of alcohol as the wine tourism sector will now be able to resume cellar door sales on weekends.

“As we have done since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, we will continue to support businesses in the Western Cape, especially tourism businesses, as we move forward and focus on our economic recovery so that we can save jobs in the Western Cape,” Maynier said in a statement.

“We know times are tough, but if you can, please go out and support our businesses in the Western Cape, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality sector.”

He urged all residents in the province and its visitors to enjoy the beauty, award-winning foods and wines and its cultural heritage and support this sector.

“The summer season is an important time for celebration and festivities with families and friends, even more so after the difficult year we have been through. But please continue to do everything you can to adhere to the health and safety guidelines to protect yourself and your loved ones from Covid-19,” Maynier said.