Residents of Cape Town are increasingly being priced out of their own city. As tourism grows, coffee shops, restaurants, and short-term rental prices are set in line with foreign currencies such as the US Dollar, Euro, and British Pound. This makes everyday activities and housing unobtainable for many people earning in Rands. Local families, students, and workers are struggling to enjoy or even access the same spaces they helped build and sustain in their own city. 

This petition aims to gather as many signatures as possible to add to a petition addressed to the National Council of Provinces. The petition will demand action towards achieving fair price policies and establishing legislations to protect local consumers from being exploited by landlords and local businesses. 

What is at stake?

If this continues, Cape Town risks becoming a city that mainly serves visitors rather than its residents. The rising cost of living is widening inequality, forcing locals out of central areas, and weakening small community-based businesses. Protecting affordability for residents will help keep Cape Town’s social and cultural diversity alive while still welcoming tourism that benefits the economy.

Why is now the time to act

With tourism rebounding strongly and foreign spending power at record highs, immediate action is needed to balance the city’s economy. We urge Parliament to support the introduction of a local pricing policy that allows or encourages businesses to offer reduced rates for South African residents. This will make life fairer for locals while maintaining tourism revenue. Similar systems already exist in countries such as Thailand and Kenya, where both locals and visitors benefit from a more balanced approach.

Requested action:

That Parliament:

• Investigate the impact of tourism-driven price inflation on Cape Town residents.
• Encourage or mandate local pricing policies for hospitality and rental services.
• Work with the City of Cape Town and the Department of Tourism to create guidelines and incentives for businesses that offer local discounts.
• Hold public hearings to ensure local voices are included in any new policy.