South Africa named Africa’s leading tourism economy in 2024

South Africa has been recognized as the top-ranking country in the African region in the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) by the World Economic Forum. The country achieved this prestigious ranking in the TTDI 2024, which covers 119 economies and measures factors and policies that enable sustainable and resilient development in the travel and tourism sector.

According to the TTDI findings, South Africa boasts the largest travel and tourism economy in Africa, showcasing its potential for growth and contribution to the country’s overall development. Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, expressed her delight at the ranking, attributing the sector’s robust growth to partnerships and collaborations with the private sector.

In the 2024 Index, South Africa moved up seven places compared to its previous ranking, scoring high in price competitiveness, ICT readiness, natural resources, and socio-economic impact. The country welcomed close to 8.5 million international visitors in 2023, with a significant increase in arrivals from the African continent.

The TTDI serves as a benchmarking tool for stakeholders to assess the progress of the travel and tourism sector, guiding policy and investment decisions. It highlights areas for improvement and facilitates strategic planning for sustainable and resilient growth.

Minister de Lille emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector to further enhance South Africa’s ranking and solidify its position as a leading global travel destination. The country’s tourism sector continues to play a vital role in driving economic growth and job creation, with a focus on maximizing its potential for the benefit of all stakeholders.