Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has reaffirmed that tourism is a key driver of economic growth, investment and job creation in South Africa.
Between January and December 2025, South Africa welcomed 10.48 million international arrivals, a 17.6% increase compared to 2024 and the highest number of arrivals on record.
This confirms tourism’s growing contribution to the economy, said the Minister who was addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today.
“This is not coincidence. It is the result of deliberate policy choices, focused implementation and strong collaboration between government and the private sector,” De Lille said.
Last year, Cabinet endorsed the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, a product of deep collaboration between government and industry being led by the South African Tourism Business Council.
“Home Affairs plans to roll out the Electronic Travel Authorisation system, beginning with key source markets, including India, China, Mexico and Indonesia, following its successful pilot during the G20 Summit.
“With the full rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation system, we project the creation of between 80 000 and 100 000 additional jobs. That is transformative,” the Minister said.
She welcomed new direct flights to and from the country, including Qantas’ direct flight from Perth to Johannesburg, the return of Air France’s daily seasonal service to Cape Town, SAA’s new Cape Town - Mauritius route and expanded domestic connectivity including FlySafair’s Hoedspruit - Cape Town service.
“These routes are unlocking demand and dispersing tourism across the country,” the Minister said.
She congratulated the KwaZulu-Natal province for turning the corner, as Durban welcomed a record-breaking 1.2 million visitors during the past festive season.
“The Free State’s Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre, developed through a R120 million partnership between the Department of Tourism, the European Union and SANParks, has welcomed over 80 000 visitors and generated more than R1 million in revenue since opening.
“The private sector has established a crime call centre linked to the Secura App, enabling rapid emergency response. During the festive season, 1500 tourism monitors were deployed nationally, including more than 400 supporting the Border Management Authority,” the Minister said.
South Africa’s global competitiveness was further recognised when the country was named Best Destination: Africa 2025, by the Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards. – SAnews.gov.za
