In brief
South Africa’s tourism chief aims to make China its primary tourism market, introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization system and widening attractions beyond Cape Town and Kruger. The government will also train guides in Mandarin and expand offerings of township cuisine and cultural experiences.
In a November 1, 2026 interview with Xinhua, South Africa’s director‑general of tourism, Nkhumeleni Victor Vele, told reporters in Johannesburg that the country was positioning China as a cornerstone for its tourism future.
"We see it as a market that is actually going to be an anchor for us in the future," Vele said. He added that China now leads applications through the National Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, “describing the uptake as an encouraging sign of renewed interest in visiting South Africa.”
The government has officially launched the ETA in August, after piloting it for travelers from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico during its G20 presidency. Eligible visitors can apply online, with applications processed within 24 hours, eliminating the need to visit an embassy.
Expanded Attractions and Cultural Outreach
Vele noted that, while Cape Town and the Kruger National Park already attract Chinese tourists, the country seeks to showcase its township and village cuisine, cultural performances, and storytelling traditions. He highlighted the desert landscapes of the Northern Cape, its wildlife and plants, Karoo lamb and wines, as well as the Venda communities’ traditions in Limpopo’s rural villages.
To make these experiences accessible, South African tourism providers are training guides in Mandarin and deepening their knowledge of Chinese culture, Vele said. The training extends beyond language to cultural sensitivities, and operators are encouraged to offer familiar meals during longer stays to accommodate visitors’ preferences.
