WTM Africa 2023 Record Numbers Signal Tourism Recovery

WTM AFRICA 2023 HAS OPENED WITH OVER 5,000 REGISTRATIONS, ALMOST 600 EXHIBITORS, AND 200 EXPERT SPEAKERS, MARKING A RETURN TO PRE-PANDEMIC NUMBERS.

On April 3rd, 2023, WTM Africa 2023 officially commenced with over 5,000 registrations, almost 600 exhibitors, 49 new countries, 200 expert speakers, and over 80 hours of content sessions. This year’s event marks a return to pre-pandemic numbers. There are also 9,200 pre-scheduled appointments, a 35% increase from last year, with over 63% of the buyers coming from new markets such as Malaysia, Pakistan, Thailand, Philippines, Romania, Armenia, San Marino, and Uzbekistan.

The Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, conveyed her enthusiasm for the tourism industry’s resurgence and underscored the significance of the tourism sector in South Africa. She stated that the time has come for implementation, saying, “We are all ready to come back with a bang. And we’ve already started coming back.”

Eddie Andrews, deputy mayor of Cape Town, acknowledged the significance of tourism in Cape Town and its impact on the economy. He emphasized their commitment to building a city of hope, creating tourism-related jobs in every household, and highlighting Africa’s many stories.

Carol Weaving, managing director of RX Africa, highlighted the statistics, emphasizing that WTM Africa 2023 is ready to do business with 577 exhibitors and 9,200 pre-scheduled appointments. She also noted that 66% of buyers come from new markets.

As a speaker at WTM Africa 2023, Mark Sham, the founder of Suits & Sneakers, urged participants to connect and enjoy themselves while expressing his appreciation for the chance to interact with others and highlighting the potential of Africa.

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