1,900+ buyers at SAT virtual show

South African Tourism’s maiden virtual roadshow ‘VirtuallyYoursSouthAfrica’ concluded successfully with 99 South
African suppliers as part of the delegation who exhibited their products from 20th to 22nd October 2021. Of them, over 41 were exhibiting in India for the first time and they showcased their products to more than 1,900 Indian buyers.

Hazel Jain

Inspired by border openings and increased confidence in travel, South African Tourism held their maiden virtual roadshow in India to capitalize on the strong consumer and corporate traveler demand in the country. The ‘VirtuallyYoursSouthAfrica’ roadshow is expected to boost tourism economies in both nations.

According to the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan put together by the tourism board earlier this year, key focus areas remain re-igniting demand, protecting and rejuvenating supply and strengthening capacity. The recently-concluded roadshow in India is the first of many efforts to reignite international travel demand, in order to meet a global target of 2.6 million visitors in FY21-22.

About 99 South African suppliers were part of the trade delegation who exhibited their products and services in India from 20th to 22nd October 2021. Of the 99 suppliers, over 41 were exhibiting in India for the first time and 12 were women-owned enterprises.

With a heavy emphasis on empowering small businesses and boosting the local economy, this roadshow also saw the inclusion of 31 SMMEs – more than double the number that participated in the 2020 roadshow. Also present were representatives from accommodation establishments, destination management companies, experiences, seven South African Provinces, VFS and airlines showcased their product and services.

“India is a high potential source market for us, at South African Tourism. In fact, the market has been recognised as one of our key international focus markets. While India has traditionally been a multigenerational, family source market, we see huge opportunity to leverage the destination amongst millennials as well. They are looking for an adventure and with 3.000+ adventure activities, South Africa is known to provide one at every turn! We hope to welcome more and more Indian travellers to have safe, sustainable and memorable holidays, as well as a taste of our warm hospitality and local culture,” says Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – MEISEA, South African Tourism. Commenting on the roadshow, she said, “I am thrilled at the response we received at our maiden virtual roadshow – I believe that the partnerships forged here will be instrumental in setting the tone as we direct efforts towards travel recovery in India.”

In line with their evolved recovery plan, South African Tourism India has identified key focus areas for the forthcoming year. These include aggressively promoting their new regions, building on the destination’s position as the adventure capital of the world, providing increased value for money itineraries and catering to niche traveler segments like runners, bikers, sports enthusiasts etc. The tourism board is also hoping to welcome a large number of Indian cricket fans into the destination during India’s Test tour of South Africa in December 2021.

Good to know

South Africa is currently open to all international tourists, including Indians. Travellers intending to visit the country will be required to produce a negative PCR test, not older than 72 hours from the time of departure from the country of origin to South Africa.