Lukashenko signed a decree on the development of agro-ecotourism. The sector is expected to undergo many changes.

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko signed Decree No. 351 "On the Development of Agro-ecotourism". The document is aimed at improving the regulation of activities in the field of agro-ecotourism, enhancing the quality of services provided, eliminating the possibility of conducting hotel or restaurant business under the guise of agro-ecotourism estates, and protecting the rights of citizens residing in their vicinity. This was reported to BelTA by the press service of the Head of State.

The Decree clarifies the requirements for agro-ecotourism facilities. In particular, this concerns the number of residential rooms for agro-ecotourists, which should not exceed ten. There are also clarifications on maintaining personal subsidiary plots and the number of types of services provided within the complex – at least two.

The list of services has been supplemented with master classes aimed at familiarising visitors with the crafts and national traditions of the region.

The responsibility of agro-ecotourism estate owners has been established for violations (including by visitors) of public order or citizens' peace, non-compliance with legislation in the field of sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population, environmental protection, and fire safety requirements.

Restrictions have been introduced on holding presentations, anniversaries, banquets, and other events in close proximity to neighbouring residential buildings.

The necessity of obtaining permission from district executive committees to conduct activities in the field of agro-ecotourism has been established. Existing agro-ecotourism estates must obtain such permission by 1 July 2023.

Following the results of the President's meeting with the leadership of the Council of Ministers on 9 September 2022, in order to create additional conditions for the development of agro-ecotourism in rural areas, regional executive committees have been granted the right to determine lists of settlements where the placement of agro-ecotourism estates is not permitted. At the same time, the possibility of continuing the operation of existing agro-ecotourism estates in such territories is provided, subject to compliance with other requirements of the decree.

Source: belta.by