Tourism numbers to South Africa from India are expected to grow by around 13% this year, despite there being no direct flights between the countries.
Speaking to Tourism Update on the side lines of Meetings Africa 2020 in Johannesburg this month, Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, highlighted that it was evident from her trip to India in January this year that the growth in total spend and the average length of stay from Indian travellers was a positive indicator of the potential growth in the market.
“This gives us the confidence to continue introducing new regions and experiences,” she said.
Indian-based Vibrant Holiday Destinations Manager, Shahid Ayubi, told Tourism Update that a direct fight from India would be welcomed, especially for the MICE market. “We bring about 2 000 MICE travellers to South Africa every year but we could potentially double that should a direct flight be introduced.”
According to him, the Indian MICE market favours Cape Town as a destination but it means taking three flights – from Mumbai to Dubai then to Johannesburg and on to Cape Town. Alternatively it’s Mumbai, Seychelles, Johannesburg and Cape Town.
“That’s quite daunting, especially if you’re travelling for business or a conference,” added Ayubi.
Kubayi-Ngubane acknowledged that President Cyril Ramaphosa had indicated last year that a direct flight to India made sense as India was a strong trade partner for SA as well. “It’s not a possibility from the national carrier at this point but I have called for interest from other international airlines, but there has been no interest shown at this stage,” she commented.
The e-Visa system is still being piloted in India, highlighted the Minister, pointing out that there had been some glitches initially. “We are working on this and will go live as soon as these have been addressed.” She said an easier online application process was sure to boost tourism numbers as well.
