Mandeep S Lamba, President, South Asia, HVS, emphasised on the need for infra status for the industry, saying, “Infra status is crucial for the industry as it enables long-term financing. Currently, payback periods are restricted to 10 to 12 years, whereas the industry needs 25 to 30 years.” Infrastructure classification can lower borrowing costs, driving growth. The demand for hotel rooms will rise sharply, especially if foreign tourist arrivals reach 50 to 100 million by 2047. The ease of doing business must improve, reducing license requirements and cutting the gestation period from 48 to 36 months. Infrastructure status should cover the entire hospitality sector, including budget hotels, to support nationwide growth, shared Lamba.
