About the Summit

South Africa’s tourism sector is a key pillar of economic growth, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and foreign direct investment. Unlocking the full potential of the sector requires strategic investments in tourism infrastructure and digital transformation, ensuring resilience, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Strategic alignment with national and international frameworks will ensure that tourism development contributes to economic resilience, job creation, and sustainable growth.

This first of its kind Tourism Investment Summit will convene global leaders, policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders with a view to drive investment and develop a robust investment pipeline for the South Africa’s tourism industry, which in turn aligns with South Africa’s broader economic development goals.

Investment in tourism infrastructure is fundamental to South Africa’s long-term economic sustainability and competitiveness in the global tourism market. By targeting key development areas, the country can enhance visitor experiences, improve accessibility, and foster inclusive economic growth.

A well-structured investment framework is essential to facilitate the successful development of South Africa’s tourism infrastructure. A combination of policy interventions, investment facilitation mechanisms, and strategic partnerships will be crucial to attracting private sector participation and ensuring that tourism projects align with national priorities:

Please note: Attendance is by invitation only and invitations are not transferable.

Tourism Infrastructure Development

Objective

Improve tourism infrastructure to support long-term sector growth and competitiveness.

Outcomes

  • Optimising Government-Owned Tourism Infrastructure through PPPs.
  • Integrated Tourism Precincts
  • Eco-lodges and Sustainable Tourism Developments.
  • Upgrading Airport and Transport Infrastructure.
Tourism Investment in Smart Cities and Digital Transformation

Objective

Enhance the tourism value chain through technology and digital innovation.

Outcomes

  • Smart Tourism Cities: Digital transformation of tourism experiences through smart infrastructure, Al-driven visitor management, and mobile tourism applications.

  • Blockchain and Digital Payments in Tourism: Encouraging investment in fintech solutions to streamline travel transactions for international visitors.

Community-Based Tourism Enterprises

Objective

Drive inclusive growth and empower local communities through tourism investment.

Outcomes

  • Heritage and Cultural Tourism Hubs: Development of heritage precincts that promote local arts, crafts, and storytelling

  • Agri-Tourism and Wine Tourism Expansion: Strengthening the role of local farmers and wineries in tourism.

  • Rural Tourism Development: Investments in infrastructure to promote township and rural tourism.

Sustainable Tourism and Green Investments

Objective

Align tourism infrastructure development with environmental sustainability and climate resiliance.

Outcomes

  • Carbon-Neutral & Low-Carbon Resorts and Green Hotels: Promoting eco-friendly hospitality projects.

  • Regenerative Tourism Projects: Initiatives that restore ecosystems while creating employment.

  • Sustainable Marine and Coastal Tourism: Investments in conservation-aligned tourism along South Africa’s coastline.