SA Tourism, TBCSA embark on global roadshow to increase international arrivals

©PÃ?©ter Gudell via 123RF

Recently, President Cyril Ramaphosa challenged the South African tourism industry to grow its numbers to 21 million international visitors by 2030. This is in addition to the five-in-five strategic goal that sets the target of an additional four million international visitors and one million domestic holiday trips by 2021.

In order to achieve these goals, the following key markets have been identified

• Central Europe (Austria, Switzerland and Germany)

• United Kingdom
• USA
• China
• India
• Australia
• Nigeria

Central Europe and the United Kingdom roadshows commence in Zurich this week with the delegation continuing to Vienna, Frankfurt and London over the next 10 days.

Key to the discussions will be one on one and round table engagements focusing on areas that have become a concern for European travellers choosing other destinations ahead of South Africa.

"Our key partners and stakeholders have raised concerns with some barriers associated with travelling to South Africa," commented Sthembiso Dlamini, SA Tourism acting CEO.

"By engaging face-to-face, we are showing our commitment and our willingness to assist our stakeholders to position South Africa as an ideal holiday and business destination."

"Europe had exceptional growth over the three-year period between 2016 up until the start of the water crisis in Cape Town and while we have not seen the growth we would’ve loved from this market since then, we need to understand what other reasons are there for this so we can work closely with our partners in Europe to ensure growth from this market," added Dlamini.

Identifying challenges, opportunities for growth

"From a TBCSA perspective it is important that we defend and grow this important market as well as other identified markets," said Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, TBCSA CEO.

"In order to achieve the 21 million international arrivals by 2030, we are working together with SA Tourism in identifying challenges, and opportunities for growth across all identified markets."

"This roadshow provides an important opportunity to engage with the trade and media around important issues that affect our arrivals," concluded Tshivhengwa.

With at least 17 airlines connecting directly from Europe to South Africa, the region has huge potential and possesses the biggest source markets for international visitors to South Africa.

Over the next 10 days, the South African delegation will engage with over 100 key decision-makers of the travel trade industry responsible for promoting South Africa as a tourist destination.