The event kicked off with a vibrant and engaging performance by South Indian artists, providing a cultural experience that showcased the dynamic music, dance, and colors emblematic of South Africa. This immersive presentation served as a visual and auditory tribute to the nation’s rich cultural legacy, a theme that permeated the entire press conference.
A notable achievement for South Africa’s Global Tourism Leadership
During the press conference, Neliswa Nkani (Tourism Execution Manager) announced a remarkable national accomplishment: Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille's recent election as the first vice-chair of the United Nations Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for 2025. This recognition highlights South Africa’s expanding influence in global tourism policy. The election occurred at the UN Tourism conference in Catalonia, Colombia, positioning South Africa as a pivotal contributor to the future of international tourism.
Enhancing bilateral relations and tourism cooperation with India
The main objective of the South African delegation's trip to India is to strengthen the partnership between the tourism sectors of both nations. Minister de Lille underscored that India is a vital market for South African tourism, with significant opportunities for growth in both leisure and business travel. This visit coincides with a pivotal moment for South Africa, which took on the G20 presidency on December 1, 2024. As 2025 approaches, a year anticipated to be filled with high-profile diplomatic and business activities, South Africa is keen to establish itself as a leading destination for tourism and international commerce.
Minister de Lille expressed pride in the renowned hospitality of South Africa, inviting Indian visitors to experience it for themselves. “South Africans are celebrated for their warmth and hospitality, and we want our Indian friends to feel completely at home during their stay in our country,” she stated.
Addressing visa challenges, a significant breakthrough for Indian tourists
A key focus of the press conference was the introduction of an improved visa process for Indian visitors, which has historically hindered the growth of South Africa’s tourism sector. Following extensive discussions, the South African government has streamlined its visa protocols for all BRICS nations, including India, allowing tour operators to manage visa applications on behalf of their clients.
Effective January 20, 2025, Indian tour operators will have the capability to submit applications for both individual and group travellers via a specialized portal, with processing times reduced to just 2–3 days. This new approach removes the previously complex documentation requirements, such as death or divorce certificates, and concentrates on essential information, including travel dates, visit purpose, and accommodation details.
Minister de Lille stated, "We have dedicated significant effort to address the visa situation. Historically, India and China have had a different visa arrangement compared to Brazil and Russia. However, after a year of negotiations, we are pleased to announce that we have unified this process for all BRICS nations. This represents a significant advancement for tourism among our countries."
E-visas usher in a new travel era
Alongside the new framework for tour operators, the South African government will implement an e-visa system for qualified Indian travelers, simplifying the application process. Travelers will be able to apply for an e-visa from their homes, with an expected processing time of 2-3 days, thereby enhancing accessibility and efficiency for travel to South Africa.
Improving connectivity through direct flights and airline collaborations
The connectivity between South Africa and India has historically posed challenges, particularly due to the absence of direct flights, which has hindered tourism. To tackle this issue, the South African delegation is engaging with prominent Indian airlines, such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, as well as South African Airways, to investigate the establishment of direct flight routes. Minister de Lille highlighted that direct connectivity is crucial not only for tourism but also for fostering trade and investment between the two countries.
"We are collaborating with airlines to assess direct flight possibilities, which will undoubtedly unlock significant opportunities for both tourism and business between South Africa and India," she remarked.
India's Increasing Tourism and Aspirational Targets
Minister de Lille presented data indicating the significant growth potential for Indian tourism in South Africa. In 2019, more than 95,000 Indian tourists visited South Africa, although this number saw a considerable decline during the pandemic. By 2023, around 79,000 Indian travelers had returned, indicating a gradual recovery. Currently, India represents only 3.9% of South Africa's total international arrivals, but Minister de Lille expressed her team's ambition to elevate this percentage to 10% by the following year. "With a streamlined visa process and new flight routes being developed, we are confident in our ability to substantially boost the number of Indian visitors to South Africa," stated Minister de Lille.
Promising Prospects for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions)
The discussion also emphasized South Africa's position as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. In 2023, the country generated USD 6.6 billion in MICE revenue, a figure that Minister de Lille and CEO Guliwe aim to enhance by targeting Indian corporations and business travelers. "MICE has played a crucial role in our tourism recovery and will remain a primary focus in India," remarked Nombulelo Guliwe, CEO of South African Tourism.
Upcoming Cricket World Cup 2027 and Cultural Partnerships
Looking forward, Minister de Lille noted that South Africa will host the 2027 World T20 Cricket Championship, a significant event anticipated to draw thousands of Indian fans. To prepare for this surge in cricket enthusiasts, South Africa is collaborating closely with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure efficient visa processing. The press conference also highlighted exciting new cultural partnerships between India and South Africa, including the establishment of a new temple in Johannesburg, which will be the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
Scheduled to commence its first phase in January 2025, the temple stands as a testament to the strengthening cultural connections between the two nations.
South Africa Prepared to Embrace India
The visit of the South African Tourism delegation to India marks a pivotal advancement in enhancing the relationship between the two countries, particularly in tourism and broader diplomatic engagements. With an improved visa process, the possibility of direct flights, and an increasing emphasis on MICE and cultural exchanges, South Africa is set to emerge as a more appealing destination for Indian tourists in the years ahead.
The message was unmistakable: Minister de Lille’s concluding remarks reflected the delegation’s enthusiasm: “We are prepared to welcome the world, and India is a vital partner in this endeavor. Together, we will transform South Africa into an even more exciting, accessible, and attractive destination for Indian travelers.”