A Seychelles licensing clarification issued by two ministries has done little to resolve uncertainty. The application of licensing requirements affecting entertainment in bars and restaurants remains unclear.
In a joint statement on 30 April 2026, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning, Trade and Investment and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture issued a clarification. They said events scheduled for the bank holiday weekend should go ahead.
The statement follows an earlier announcement by the Seychelles Licensing Authority on 29 April. That announcement had already triggered confusion among venues.
“Planned entertainment activities for this bank holiday weekend do not need to be cancelled,” the ministries said.
At the same time, authorities reiterated that venues must comply strictly with existing laws on public noise.
“Events must operate in strict conformity with the law around public noise nuisance,” the statement added.
Venues have been reminded to keep music at a “reasonable decibel” and avoid loud music after 11pm unless prior authorisation has been granted.
Despite the reassurance, the government acknowledged that clarity is still lacking. Further guidance will follow consultations between ministries and agencies next week.
“Further clarity on the application of licensing requirements will be communicated pending inter-ministerial and agency consultations,” the statement said.
The delay leaves businesses operating without clear direction following the initial notice.
The ministries said they aim to balance support for the entertainment sector with wider public concerns.
“Both Ministries remain committed to establishing the right mechanisms to support the entertainment industry while safeguarding community interests,” the statement said.
For now, the latest clarification confirms that events can proceed, but key details on how the rules will be applied remain unresolved.