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Tourism from India to South Africa has surged by 65 percent year-on-year in 2023, marking a significant increase in arrivals. Despite this promising growth, the industry is still below its pre-pandemic levels. Senior Minister Patricia de Lille recently shared these insights during a BRICS Tourism Ministers meeting held in Cape Town.
Minister Patricia de Lille underscored that South Africa's tourism recovery is well underway, with substantial growth in arrivals from BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. For the first eight months of 2023, South Africa recorded 5.5 million arrivals, signifying a 63.4 percent increase from the same period in 2022.
BRICS Nations' Tourism Growth
Citing data from BRICS nations, Minister de Lille highlighted the varied growth rates. Russia led the pack with the highest percentage increase in tourists in 2023. China followed with an impressive growth of 247 percent, and India exhibited a commendable 65 percent increase. In contrast, Brazil experienced the lowest increase at 41 percent.
Recovery Path for Key Source Markets
Arrivals from Brazil, India, and China during the first eight months of 2023 still fell short of 2019 levels. However, Minister De Lille expressed confidence in the recovery of these key source markets in the coming months, especially with the resumption of direct flights.
The BRICS Tourism Ministers' Meeting for 2023 provided an opportunity for the exchange of information and experiences among the member countries. The meeting aimed to deepen cooperation and reach a consensus on key policy priorities for a balanced tourism recovery.
Enhancing Tourism Cooperation
Minister De Lille emphasized the urgency highlighted by BRICS leaders at the Summit regarding the tourism sector's recovery and the importance of increasing intra-BRICS tourism. The goal is to create a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive tourism sector through cooperative efforts.
Focus on Indian Market
The Indian delegation at the BRICS Tourism Ministers meeting was led by Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Rakesh Kumar Verma. The meeting aimed to address the issue of access to South Africa for Indian travelers, including discussions on direct flights and visa regimes.
Improving Accessibility and Visa Processes
The Minister called for the expedited reintroduction of direct flights and easier visa regimes. Direct flights between South Africa and India have been a concern for Indian business leaders, and steps are being taken to address this issue.
Visa Exemptions and E-Visa System
Minister De Lille noted that visitors from Brazil and Russia are now visa-exempt countries in South Africa, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days without a visa. China and India are part of the first 34 countries included in South Africa's e-visa system.
Showcasing South Africa's Attractions
The minister detailed plans to continue marketing and promotion efforts in BRICS countries, highlighting South Africa's unique attractions, including its conference and event hosting capabilities, wildlife, culture, scenery, and adventure activities.
Ensuring Safety and Security
To provide a safe and secure environment for visitors from BRICS nations and beyond, South Africa is focusing on improving safety and security measures.
In conclusion, South Africa's tourism industry is on a path to recovery with promising growth in BRICS arrivals. The country is actively working to strengthen its ties with these key source markets and enhance accessibility, while also focusing on marketing its diverse attractions and ensuring the safety of visitors.
Inputs from PTI.
