December 17, 2024
2 mins read

De Lille promotes SA tourism in India 

India, a key partner and one of South Africa’s most dynamic tourism markets, presents significant opportunities for cultural, economic, and people-to-people connections…reports Asian Lite News

South Africa has immense potential as a premier travel destination for Indian tourists, said Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille following her recent visit to India. Leading a South African delegation, De Lille engaged with Indian tourism stakeholders, tour operators, and business leaders to foster stronger ties and promote South Africa’s diverse offerings to Indian travelers. 

“This mission aimed to build relationships within the tourism value chain, emphasizing tourism as a tool for economic growth,” De Lille said, highlighting South Africa’s tourism promotion efforts during its G20 presidency, which began on December 1. 

India, a key partner and one of South Africa’s most dynamic tourism markets, presents significant opportunities for cultural, economic, and people-to-people connections. De Lille emphasized that tapping into India’s growing middle class and expanding outbound travel market is essential for South Africa to achieve its goal of 15 million annual tourist arrivals by 2030. 

Currently, Indian tourists account for just 3.9% of international visitors to South Africa. To increase this share, De Lille announced plans to streamline travel processes, including improving visa procedures and re-establishing direct flights between South Africa and India. Discussions are underway between South African Airways and Indian airlines to reintroduce direct routes, addressing a major barrier cited by travelers. 

The long visa processing times are also being tackled through the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), a new initiative targeting India and China. Under TTOS, vetted Indian tour operators will register with South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, allowing group visa applications to be processed more efficiently. 

De Lille underscored India’s potential, with outbound tourism spending expected to grow from $18.82 billion in 2024 to $55.39 billion by 2034. She highlighted South Africa’s unique appeal, including warm hospitality, excellent cuisine, stunning natural landscapes, and Instagram-worthy experiences tailored for young adventurers and families alike. 

“Indian travelers seek authentic, memorable experiences, and South Africa delivers with its vibrant culture, adventure activities, and breathtaking sites,” De Lille said. “We aim to ensure Indian tourists leave with unforgettable memories, while fostering a stronger tourism partnership between our nations.” 

ALSO READ: Energy to bind India, Lanka, UAE   

Previous Story

NCERT cuts prices of textbooks for classes 9-12 by 20% 

Next Story

India, Moldova sign MoU on training for diplomats 

Latest from -Top News

Trump-Putin bhai, bhai

The closer Trump and Putin get Britain, France and other Western countries which, since the end of the Second World War, have seen America as an ally, will have to rethink their

‘Harry is a bully’

Sophie Chandauka says duke unleashed ‘Sussex machine’ but source close to ex-trustees claims accusation baseless The chair of a charity established by Prince Harry has accused him of “harassment and bullying at

UAE unveils new dirham symbol and digital currency

Alongside the new Dirham symbol, the CBUAE has also announced significant progress in the issuance and circulation of the Digital Dirham, a cornerstone of the Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) Programme The Central

Bangladesh’s China Pivot: A Risky Bet?

While leveraging major powers for economic and strategic benefits is a common diplomatic tactic for smaller nations, the risks of over-reliance on China are well-documented in the experiences of Sri Lanka, the
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024 Reveals Star-Studded Nominees

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Diljit Dosanjh

Global South on focus as India’s busy diplomatic season kicks off

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to become voice of