In 2018, South Africa’s travel & tourism sector contributed 1.5 million jobs and ZAR425.8 billion into the economy, turning out to be Africa’s largest tourism economy, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) annual report on the financial impact and social importance of the sector released today.
For more than 25 years, WTTC, which signifies for the global private sector of Travel & Tourism, has made an assessment of the Travel & Tourism sector across 185 countries. Last year’s research shows that the South Africa Travel & Tourism sector:
- Contributed approximately ZAR425.8 billion to the economy of the country – the largest of any country in Africa. This stands for 8.6% of all economic activity in South Africa.
- Generated 1.5 million jobs, or 9.2% of total employment
- Was mainly influenced by leisure travelers: 64% of the travel economy was churned out by leisure visitors and 36% from business travelers.
- Is roughly balanced between international and domestic travel: 44% of the tourism spending came from overseas tourists and 56% from domestic travel.
To quote Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, “Travel & Tourism contributes more to the South Africa economy than in any other African country. In total, our sector contributes ZAR425.8 billion and 1.5 million jobs which makes it a formidable part of the economy.”
“South Africa has long grasped the potential of Travel & Tourism to drive economic growth, create jobs and promote social development and I would like to acknowledge the leadership of Minister of Tourism, H.E. Derek Hanekom. That is why we welcome President Ramaphosa’s ambition to double the number of people directly employed in T&T in South Africa.”
“Looking to the future, I believe that Travel & Tourism is South Africa’s greatest resource and the country’s strategy for expansion which priorities regional integration, environment sustainability and putting the community at the heart of decisions will make for a successful combination.”
Tags: WTTC
