MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA: MEADFA PRESIDENT INTERVIEW


Governments must recognise the uniqueness of DF&TR, says MEADFA


While working with governments on issues relating to Covid-19, the Middle East and Africa Duty Free Association is not losing sight of the various other threats and challenges facing the industry in the region. Andrew Pentol speaks to MEADFA President, Haitham Al Majali.


T


his year’s Middle East and Africa Duty Free Conference may have been cancelled


like other industry events due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, but the Middle East and Africa Duty Free Association (MEADFA) has a clear action plan before hopefully hosting a successful event in 2021. Besides Covid-19, the DF&TR


industry faces various restrictions, challenges and threats which MEADFA must contest and there is plenty more to be done to protect and defend the DF&TR industry in the region. Haitham Al Majali, President,


MEADFA tells TRBusiness: “We need to ensure governments understand DF&TR is a key source of income to rebuild airports and tourism economies. “In addition, we must share


the practices from Europe to best face Covid-19 and recommend and support the recovery and sustainability of the industry.”


A unique business In order for the recovery in the region to gather pace, governments must recognise the uniqueness of the duty free channel and realise that domestic regulatory restrictions should not apply to this distinct business. Al Majali explains: “Governments


in the region have different political and economic situations, which require them to take certain decisions. We understand that, especially during this difficult period caused by the pandemic. “All things considered, I believe


governments in the region should consider the importance of DF&TR and how much [revenue] it generates for the travel industry. “I urge governments to coordinate with us at MEADFA to ensure a


NOVEMBER 2020


winning situation for all parties.” Dialogue and mutual benefit are in MEADFA’s best interest, according to Al Majali. “We will continue working with governments to ensure restrictions are eased and provide a better experience for our travellers.” During the pandemic, MEADFA


has indirectly engaged governments via retailers and airports. The Association’s Advocacy Working Group has also provided support for members in terms of messaging and narrative. “We also coordinated with ACI


Africa in assisting and updating its Covid-19 best practices according to industry recommendations.” Acquiring the attention and


full support of governments, landlords and stakeholders in the region is vital. Al Majali comments: “Communication with governments is crucial to ensuring the continuity and prosperity of the industry. “At MEADFA, we sent letters


to landlords and governments in the region and issued unified operational measures for re-opening duty free outlets to effectively manage the outbreak.”


Covid-19 vaccine a necessity Looking at the bigger picture, Al Majali believes it will take a couple of years until things return to normal, especially as a vaccine for Covid-19 has yet to be found. “Passengers and travellers need a safe and healthy experience to resume travelling. “Industry stakeholders are doing


everything in their power to facilitate a safe and easy travelling experience, but until there is a vaccine, the curve will require some time to return to its normal place.” Despite dealing with the crippling


impacts from Covid and connected challenges, Al Majali believes there is a silver lining in every set-back.


Last year’s MEADFA conference took place at the Kempinski Hotel in Oman.


“Adapting to different situations and moving forward has been a learning experience for everyone. I believe there will be more emphasis on technology and e-commerce.” Referring to the various webinars,


online meetings and digital events which have taken place during the crisis, he remarks. “They have removed barriers


among industry players and brought us back together to discuss new business deals, launch new products and so on. “Industry stakeholders have


overcome the postponement of face- to-face meetings and exhibitions and moved forward with business.” «


“We will continue working with governments to ensure restrictions are eased and provide a better experience for our travellers.”


Haitham Al Majali, President, MEADFA


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