success for South Africa's tourism marketing
28 March 2007
"I am pleased to announce that almost 8,4 million international tourists
visited South Africa in 2006. Once more, South African Tourism's focused
marketing strategy has delivered phenomenal results. We attracted over a
million more tourists in 2006 than in 2005, representing an increase of 13,6%,"
said Marthinus van Schalkwyk, Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, on
Wednesday.
The minister went on to say, "Attracting more tourists from around the globe
creates even more jobs and economic opportunities, enabling us to meet the
expectations created for the industry in terms of our Accelerated and Shared
Growth Initiative for South Africa (AsgiSA)."
According to the Minister, "We have received more visitors from every region
in the world. We had an increase of more than 73 000 visitors from Europe,
almost 30 000 more visitors from North America and over 30 000 more visitors
from Asia, Australasia and the Middle East. While the growth rate for our
overseas arrivals kept pace with international industry growth, our 16,9%
growth in arrivals from Africa far exceeded the international benchmark."
The Minister commented, "One key market that did not show growth was China.
I am confident however, that we can overcome the challenges in this regard.
With the further rollout of our airlift strategy, we are certain to see
continued growth from Africa and other major regions of the world."
The Minister said, "All role players must take credit for this resounding
success. The management of SA Tourism, our private sector partners, educational
institutions, government departments, provincial marketing authorities, tour
operators and guides around the country have all contributed to our
achievements. The tourism industry has been exemplary in establishing
partnerships to ensure that the benefits of our successes are widespread. There
is no limit to what we can achieve together."
Enquiries:
Riaan Aucamp
Cell: 083 778 9923
Monde Mateza
South African Tourism
Cell: 084 607 5985
Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
28 March 2007
