This means that the tourism Indaba – held from 7 to 9 May – will offer more quality networking opportunities, more industry experts behind the microphone and a renewed focus on creating future growth through tourism, says SA Tourism in a statement. The show, hosted by SA Tourism will once again te held in the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre and Durban Exhibition Centre.
According to SA Tourism Acting CEO, Sthembiso Dlamini, care has been taken to re-focus the event in response to feedback from exhibitors. She is quoted by TourismUpdate.co.za as saying exhibitors want a “business-enabling and informative show where they can meet with reputable buyers. Visitors and exhibitors should expect to come and connect with the roots of Africa’s unique tourism offering; and leave with business opportunities in hand”.
This year’s Indaba will offer three speed networking sessions on the themes: World Heritage Sites & Culture, Safari and Adventure. These have been identified based on the most popular tourist experiences. The sessions will give product owners the opportunity to present their product to international buyers.
Trade talks will be geared towards sharing market insights with the industry. New York-based CNN news anchor, Richard Quest, will facilitate a debate on the strategic economic importance of tourism and the threats and opportunities associated with it, such as job creation, foreign direct spend and social development.
Other changes include a new products and developments zone offering a table-top option for exhibitors and providing new participants a cost-effective way to exhibit. Tech exhibitors will be co-located within the ICC to improve proximity and access for trade exhibitors and encourage knowledge transfer.
