Hill-Lewis: China a potential investor to boost Cape Town tourism

Cape Town, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant tourism industry, is setting its sights on further growth by targeting the lucrative Chinese market. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Cape Town's tourism chief, Hill-Lewis, discussed the city's strategy to attract more visitors and boost its tourism sector. With a current workforce of 80,000 people in the travel and tourism industry, Cape Town is looking to double that number in the coming years, creating new job opportunities and driving economic growth. The city aims to increase its visibility on the global stage, showcasing the unique experiences and attractions it has to offer to travelers. Hill-Lewis highlighted the importance of reaching out to key markets like China and India, both of which boast vast populations of potential tourists. While the Chinese market presents a significant opportunity due to the growing number of middle-class and wealthy travelers, India is also seen as a market of the future, with its rapidly expanding travel sector. Last year, Cape Town saw a resurgence in tourism, surpassing pre-COVID levels and welcoming 2.9 million visitors, both domestic and international. With a record-breaking summer season that saw 200,000 international visitors in January alone, the city is poised for continued growth. This year, Cape Town is targeting further expansion, aiming to cross the 3 million visitor mark and achieve a 7% to 10% increase over 2023 numbers. One of the key factors driving this growth is the increase in international flights, with 215 flights per week now directly connecting Cape Town to major markets like the United States. The availability of direct flights has been a game-changer for Cape Town, particularly in attracting American tourists. Looking ahead, the city is working towards establishing more direct flight routes from regions like Asia, South America, and North America to further enhance accessibility for travelers. While challenges like power shortages persist in South Africa, Cape Town is taking proactive steps to secure its energy supply and reduce reliance on the national grid. By investing in local solar power generation, the city aims to ensure a stable energy supply and mitigate the impact of potential future shortages. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Cape Town is positioning itself as a leading destination for international tourism, offering unforgettable experiences and welcoming visitors from around the globe.