Tourism is a critical component of our economy, with significant contributions historically stemming from China.
However, the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has hampered the recovery of tourist numbers.
In 2013, South Africa welcomed 151 000 Chinese tourists, but this figure plummeted to 83 000 the subsequent year.
By 2019, there was a slight increase to 93 000.
Despite the country’s efforts to reopen borders after the pandemic, only around 34 000 Chinese visitors arrived in South Africa between January and November 2023.
Tshivhengwa attributes this decline primarily to the challenge Chinese travellers face in securing visas for entry into the country.
Consequently, he notes that South Africa is losing out as these tourists opt for destinations with smoother visa processes.
He mentions discussions with Chinese tour operators, who have indicated that a streamlined visa system would lead to increased Chinese tourism in South Africa.
Currently, our e-visa system remains…