South Africa is likely to support more jobs than ever before this year, according to research released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). However, the latest figures also indicate that the industry’s total economic contribution and international visitor spend remain below pre-pandemic levels.
The WTTC’s 2024 economic impact research forecasts the sector will support 1.9 million jobs this year, marking an all-time high and accounting for 11.3% of total employment in South Africa.
Despite this, travel and tourism’s total GDP contribution is expected to reach R659.8 billion (€32.5 billion), which is still 3.4% below its 2019 peak. International visitor spending is forecast at R128.4 billion (€6.3 billion), trailing 2019 levels by R37.7 billion (€1.8 billion).
“South Africa’s travel and tourism sector is slowly turning the corner. Jobs are leading the recovery with employment expected to reach new highs, showing the enormous human impact of the sector’s growth,” said Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the WTTC.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency this year presents an opportunity to prioritise tourism at national and international level, added Simpson, highlighting ongoing collaboration with Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, including an investment summit planned for September.
Looking ahead, the WTTC projects significant long-term potential, forecasting the sector could support 2.6 million jobs by 2035, accounting for 13.8% of national employment. The sector’s economic contribution is expected to grow to R911.7 billion (€44.9 billion), or 10.3% of GDP, if public-private collaboration continues and national priorities are aligned.
