Maputo, Mozambique — Despite all the talk of regional integration, it is becoming more, rather than less, difficult for Mozambicans to visit South Africa.

This became evident after the South African authorities suddenly imposed a 30 percent hike in the cost of entry visas.

According to a press release from the South African High Commission received Thursday, the cost of a standard visa will rise from 300 rands to 390 rands (38 to 50 US dollars) as from 1 April.

The document says that the decision was taken by the South African finance ministry, and "is to be applicable in all high commissions, embassies and consulates world-wide."

It did not, however, give any further explanation for the measure, which is in gross contradiction with the aims of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), of which both Mozambique and South Africa are members.

SADC, formed in 1980 while South Africa was still under apartheid, would like to promote economic regional integration, including the free movement of peoples and goods across the borders of its 14 member states.