SA Steps Up Tourism Growth Strategy as Patricia De Lille Deepens Engagement with Asian Markets

Addressing the Singapore Tourism Board, De Lille acknowledged the contribution of Singaporean travellers to South Africa’s strong tourism performance.

 

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says South Africa is strengthening its tourism growth strategy through investment promotion, improved air connectivity and visa reforms, as the country intensifies engagement with key Asian markets.

The Minister was speaking in Singapore this week during an official visit that included engagements with the Singapore Tourism Board, Singapore’s Minister of National Development Alvin Tan, and tourism sector stakeholders.

She said discussions focused on increasing tourist arrivals from Singapore and the wider South-East Asian region, as well as showcasing bankable tourism investment opportunities in South Africa.

Growing Arrivals from Singapore

In 2025, South Africa welcomed 9,827 tourists from Singapore, representing a 4.7 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Addressing the Singapore Tourism Board, De Lille acknowledged the contribution of Singaporean travellers to South Africa’s strong tourism performance.

“Thank you for contributing to South Africa’s record-breaking 10.48 million international arrivals that we recorded between January and December 2025,” she said.

She also highlighted government’s growing focus on tourism-led investment.

“Last year, we had our first Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit and we are now building up to the second instalment this year in September. Our message is clear: Tourism Policy is Economic Policy and South Africa’s tourism sector is open for business.”

Enhancing Ease of Travel Through Visa Reform

The Minister outlined major reforms aimed at improving ease of access for travellers from Asia, particularly through the rollout of the Electronic Visa Authorisation (EVA) system by the Department of Home Affairs.

“To improve ease of access, South Africa’s Home Affairs Department is rolling out the Electronic Visa Authorisation system. This is a game changer,” De Lille said.

She explained that the system allows applicants to apply for visas digitally via mobile phones or computers, with applications processed within 24 hours, without human adjudication.

While Singaporean passport holders do not require visas to visit South Africa, De Lille noted that travellers from Indonesia, India, China and Mexico will benefit significantly from the efficiency of the new system.

Strengthening Air Connectivity and Safety Measures

Improving air connectivity remains a central pillar of South Africa’s tourism growth strategy. De Lille described Singapore as a strategic connectivity hub for South-East Asia and key to unlocking higher tourist volumes.

“Currently, Singapore Airlines operates 12 flights per week to South Africa, and we would like to see more flights from the region,” she said.

She added that progress has been made through collaboration between government, the private sector and law enforcement to enhance visitor safety and confidence.

The private sector has invested in the SECURA app, which includes panic buttons providing tourists with rapid access to emergency services.

In addition, the Department of Tourism has invested R174.5 million to deploy over 2,300 Tourism Monitors at major tourist attractions nationwide.

Positioning South Africa as a Global Events Destination

De Lille also highlighted South Africa’s growing reputation as a leading destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE).

“Following the successful hosting of the G20 Summit in South Africa, next year we will host the Special Davos World Economic Forum meeting,” she said.

“Our world-class MICE infrastructure is being lauded globally, and that is what we will continue to promote.”

Deepening Asia–Africa Tourism Links

The Minister said South Africa is committed to diversifying its source markets and deepening tourism partnerships across Asia, positioning the country as a destination that offers not only wildlife and hospitality, but also cultural, business and investment opportunities.

The engagements in Singapore form part of a broader strategy to strengthen tourism-led economic growth, attract long-haul travellers, and reinforce South Africa’s position as a globally competitive destination.