From May 13 to 16, over 1,200 exhibitors from 26 African countries and more than 1,100 buyers from 55 countries and regions worldwide gathered in Durban, South Africa, for attending Africa's Travel Indaba 2024.
South African Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, stated at the opening ceremony of the Indaba that through the joint efforts of the South African government and the private sector, as well as measures such as the Tourism Equity Fund incentives, streamlined visa processes, and enhanced tourism safety and security guarantees, the Country’s tourism industry has achieved a robust recovery. From January to March 2024, international arrivals reached 2.4 million, with an increase of 15.4% over 2023, and over 11,000 tourists from China were entertained. In 2023, South Africa's tourism sector provided 1.3 million jobs, contributing 6.8% to GDP.
Africa's Travel Indaba is the largest leisure trade show in Africa, with this year’s theme being "Unlimited Africa". This ATI called on African countries to break down their border restrictions, share diverse cultures and landscapes, and provide unlimited opportunities for tourism exploration and innovation.