Improvements in visa facilitation by G20 countries could result in opportunities to stimulate wealth creation and employment generation.

The tourism industry came together at INDABA 2012 to shape the future through a number of new innovations that facilitated collaboration, networking and profitable partnerships.

Achieving the tough targets contained in the National Tourism Sector Strategy will require strong partnerships and a collective approach.

South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk was upbeat as he opened Africa’s top travel show, INDABA 2012, taking place in Durban until 15 May 2012.

Recent global developments are challenging South Africa to rethink and refocus its development strategies, according to KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Michael Mabuyakhulu.

Tourism industry cost drivers must be controlled to ensure profitability and job creation, Marthinus van Schalkwyk told delegates attending the 6th Hotel Investment Conference Africa in Durban.

Developing countries continue to be the drivers of economic growth, prompting Michael Mabuyakhulu, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, to call it a global economic revolution.

Mmatšatši Marobe extended the private sector’s full support to the achievements and objectives expressed by Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk in his budget vote speech.

Readers of the Lonely Planet magazine in India voted South Africa as the’ Best Destination for Wildlife (International)’ for 2012.