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Growth in tourist numbers continues
Growth in tourist numbers continues
​Tourist arrivals to South Africa continue to grow, according to the recently released Tourism and Migration report by Statistics SA.

A total of 691 414 tourist arrivals were recorded for June 2016, which is an increase of 13.3% (81 322) compared to June 2015. This brings the total tourist arrivals to 4 969 088 for the period January to June 2016, which is an increase of 15.4% (66 182) compared to the same period in 2015. 

All regions performed well when June 2016 is compared with June 2015. Asia increased by 52.9%, followed by North America (17.7%), Central and South America (16.7%), Africa including Indian Ocean Islands (12.1%), Europe (11.7%) and Australasia (11.5%). 

Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom welcomed the figures stating: “A significant increase has been observed over the past six months. These growth figures appear to be a consistent trend, which we intend to support. This is not only positive news for the tourism sector, but for the overall South African economy.” 

“All South Africa’s major overseas markets performed well, but I am particularly pleased with the increase from China and India. Tourist arrivals from China grew with 97, 9%, followed by India with 40, 3%. Tourists from the SADC region increased by 12, 2%, while 'other' African countries increased by 7,4%. 

“We are committed to maintaining this growth trajectory.  To accomplish this we will continue to invest in innovative joint marketing campaigns, while also working with tourism stakeholders to ensure we provide tourists with the best possible tourism experiences,” says Minister Hanekom.

For more information, visit our website on www.tourism.gov.za

Enquiries: 

Mr. Trevor Bloem 
Department Spokesperson Chief Director: Communications
Telephone: +27 (0) 12 444 6607
Website: www.tourism.gov.za