S Africa receives first tourists from China in three years

South Africa on Wednesday received the first group of 13 tourists from China over the past three years.

The tourists, taking a flight from Air China, landed at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday and were welcomed by people from different walks of life.

Nomasonto Ndlovu, chief operations officer of South Africa Tourism, said the resumption of Chinese tourist visits would help grow the economy and create jobs. International travel between the two countries was greatly restricted following the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.

"China is the most promising source market for South Africa," Ndlovu said. "The impact on the economy of South Africa will be positive and sustainable. This direct flight brings phenomenal business opportunities and increased trade and investment between China and South Africa."

She stated she expects the country to start receiving 8,000 Chinese tourists per month beginning in September. Ndlovu said Air China will be traveling three times a week and requested they increase frequency as demand increases, and this year they expect more tourists during the BRICS summit in August and World Table Tennis Championships in May.

Zhou Yujiang, deputy Chinese consul-general in Johannesburg, assured South Africans that Chinese tourists would visit the country in big numbers and surpass pre-COVID-19 figures. He said the arrival of tourists shows the success of people-to-people relations with South Africa. Zhou added statistics show there is an increase in South African travelers to China, as well. He explained they recently engaged over 20 hotels in Johannesburg who said they are eagerly waiting to welcome Chinese tourists.

Judy Nwokedi, board chairperson of Gauteng Tourism Authority, welcomed the tourists saying it would help fight unemployment and grow the economy. She said the country is ready to receive more Chinese tourists to explore the country's beauty.

Patricia de Lille, South Africa's minister of tourism, welcomed more tourists as they would contribute to sustainable economic growth.

She said, "This flight marks a significant milestone as the first flight for group tours since the pandemic started in 2020, which is of great importance to Chinese arrivals to South Africa. China is the most promising source market for South Africa. Research has also shown great potential for travel to Africa by tourists from BRICS countries."

De Lille said if the country manages to get one million Chinese tourists by 2030, that would help reduce unemployment. She added she has engaged various stakeholders to reduce hindrances to travel like air connectivity, visa and safety.