The Guardian – South Africa is to investigate allegations that hotels have raised prices to unreasonable levels in a bid to exploit visiting fans during the 2010 World Cup.

The investigation comes a month after it was announced that domestic airlines will face similar scrutiny for alleged price-fixing.

Marthinus van Schalkwyk, the South African tourism minister, said: “In recent weeks we have noted allegations that accommodation establishments in the tourism industry are not responsible, and are inflating prices excessively.

“Until now, our impression has been that this is not the case, but we believe it should be investigated and the results of the investigation made public.”

An internet search found that a room at a midrange hotel near Johannesburg’s OR Tambo airport that would cost R1,145 (£95) on a typical weeknight will be at least a third more expensive during the Word Cup. The investigation follows an inquiry into airlines for alleged price collusion.

Read more – http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/24/south-africa-hotels-world-cup