Eastern Cape aims to expand tourism industry - SABC News - Breaking news, special reports, world, business, sport coverage of all South African current events. Africa's news leader.

October 29, 2026 - 01:57

The Eastern Cape is pushing to raise its profile as a destination for travelers from abroad, with provincial authorities outlining plans to expand the tourism sector and attract more visitors from other countries.

MEC Nonkqubela Pieters says the province wants more international tourists to visit, pointing to the sector's potential to create jobs and support local economies across the region. Tourism has long been identified as one of the province's key growth areas, and the latest push focuses on drawing attention beyond South Africa's borders.

The Eastern Cape offers a mix of attractions that appeal to overseas visitors, including rugged coastline, wildlife reserves, cultural heritage sites and adventure activities. Officials believe these assets have not yet been fully marketed to international audiences and see room to grow arrivals from key source markets.

Expanding international tourism would bring foreign spending into local communities and help small businesses that depend on visitor traffic, according to the province. The plan also ties into broader efforts to diversify the regional economy and reduce reliance on traditional industries.

Stakeholders in the hospitality and travel trade have welcomed the focus, though some note that improved infrastructure, transport connections and safety remain important for converting interest into actual bookings. The province says it will work with tourism bodies and private operators to strengthen marketing and improve the visitor experience.

With global travel demand continuing to recover, the Eastern Cape hopes its natural and cultural offerings will help it compete for a larger share of international visitors heading to South Africa.