Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille Unveils SA’s Bold Tourism Growth Plans at Indaba 2025

Tourism is once again proving to be a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy, with Minister Patricia de Lille declaring the sector “a powerful economic driver” at the opening of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 in Durban. The flagship trade show, held from 13 to 15 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, is highlighting Southern Africa’s tourism resurgence and setting out an ambitious five-year growth plan.

In 2024 alone, South Africa attracted 8.9 million international tourists, generating R91.6 billion in direct spending and supporting 1.6 million jobs. The upward trend has continued into 2025, with the first quarter showing a 5.7% increase in international arrivals compared to the same period last year.

Africa’s Rising Star in Global Travel

Africa’s tourism recovery has been one of the strongest globally. According to UN Tourism, the continent achieved a 96% rebound in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. South Africa is leading this resurgence by leveraging its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and adventure travel opportunities.

This year’s Travel Indaba is hosting over 1,300 exhibitors, 1,200 international buyers from 55 markets, and delegates from 27 African countries. New entrants from Chad, St Helena, and Burkina Faso have joined the platform, reinforcing its growing status as a truly continental showcase.

Massive Economic Impact for Durban and KZN

The Travel Indaba is not just a trade show—it’s a major economic boost. In 2024, the event generated R226 million in direct activity in Durban and an additional R333 million across KwaZulu-Natal. With more than 8,000 attendees expected this year, those numbers are projected to climb even higher.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasized tourism’s economic weight, noting that it currently contributes 8.9% to GDP and supports 1.6 million jobs. “We are determined to grow that to 2.2 million jobs by 2030,” he said.

G20 Tourism Talks Align with African Goals

Adding a global dimension, the G20 2nd Tourism Working Group meeting was held alongside the Indaba, aligning local priorities with global policy discussions. Hosted by KwaZulu-Natal under South Africa’s G20 chairship, the meeting focused on boosting air connectivity, financing, AI in tourism, and sustainable development.

Minister de Lille praised the alignment: “This synergy strengthens our efforts to ensure that Africa plays a leading role in shaping global tourism.”

Five-Year Plan to Supercharge the Sector

The Department of Tourism is finalising a bold 2025–2030 Tourism Growth Partnership Plan. The strategy includes:

• Raising total tourism employment to 2.5 million jobs

• Increasing domestic tourism spend by 25%

• Growing the sector’s GDP contribution to 10%

• Adding 1 million international air arrivals per year

This builds on an already strong recovery. From 1.46 million jobs in 2023, the sector is expected to reach 1.7 million jobs in 2024 and 2.23 million by 2030.

Youth, Innovation, and Sustainability at the Core

De Lille described Africa’s tourism future as “diverse, youthful, digital, and green.” About 75% of international arrivals in South Africa come from other African countries, making intra-African travel a key growth area.

The Indaba’s Hidden Gems zone showcased lesser-known destinations such as the Northern Cape and Limpopo. Partnerships with Airbnb and Google are helping small operators reach global audiences, while eco-tourism initiatives like carbon-neutral safaris are gaining momentum.

“We need to break through to a much higher rate of growth. We need a plan we can implement immediately,” De Lille stressed.

Obstacles Remain—but the Sector is Adapting

South Africa’s tourism industry still faces significant challenges, including visa delays, crime concerns, and electricity shortages. However, reforms like the rollout of e-visas for countries such as India and China are already paying off, and major infrastructure upgrades are underway at OR Tambo International Airport and Durban’s cruise terminal.

Adventure tourism, one of the sector’s fastest-growing segments, is another area of opportunity. Over 700,000 people sought thrills like bungee jumping, shark-cage diving, and hiking in 2024 alone.

The Indaba has made it clear: despite its challenges, South Africa’s tourism sector is not just recovering—it’s preparing to lead.

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Sourced:Central News

Picture: Atta Travel