South African Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has called on Chinese travelers to visit South Africa, describing tourism as a “bridge builder” between the two nations.
At a special event in Beijing on Friday, de Lille emphasized the significant role Chinese tourists can play in boosting economic growth and fostering deeper connections. “Tourism is a bridge builder,” she said during the Official Dialogue Between South African Minister of Tourism and China Travel Trade & Media Partners, organized by the South African Ministry of Tourism and China Travel Trade.
“Working together with the Chinese government, the opportunities are not only in tourism but also in business,” de Lille explained. “There are 40 South African companies here in China, and the Chinese government has offered us to bring in another 100 products that can be exported to China.”
De Lille highlighted her visit as an opportunity to “listen to what the Chinese travelers would like” from South Africa’s tourism sector and its partners.
Xing Chen, product director and travel trade operator, noted that under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, relations between various African countries and China are becoming closer. “Government-to-government and people-to-people exchanges are crucial links,” Xing said. “As China’s economy develops, one of the most important ways for its citizens to understand other countries is to travel there and immerse themselves in the local culture, which can easily enhance mutual understanding.”
To facilitate travel, Phindiwe Mbhele, director of corporate accounts at the South African Department of Home Affairs, highlighted the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS). This digital platform reduces visa processing times, making it easier for Chinese travelers and operators to access visas. “The TTOS is a key component of the South African government’s broader strategy to digitally transform Home Affairs, ultimately aiming for a fully automated and streamlined visa system for all tourists,” Mbhele said.
With multiple African destinations promoting themselves to Chinese tourists, South Africa aims to enhance its share of China’s outbound tourism market. The country views tourism as a vital link in strengthening ties and fostering mutual understanding between South African and Chinese people.
