President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to advancing South Africa’s travel and tourism sectors with key initiatives announced in the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA). These include modernising airport infrastructure, increasing international flight routes, improving international relations, and implementing digital identity systems to streamline travel.
“We welcome the focus on modernising South Africa’s airports and increasing flights to key destinations, both of which are essential to improving connectivity for travellers. We look forward to further engagement on how these developments will support and expand outbound travel opportunities for both corporate and leisure travellers,” says Otto de Vries, CEO of Asata.
According to Asata, improved international relations will directly benefit outbound travel by opening doors for business and leisure opportunities. Additionally, investments in digital identity systems and visa process enhancements will positively impact both inbound and outbound travel.
“Air access and the facilitation of easier business and leisure travel for South Africans remain critical, particularly in strengthening trade connections and ensuring that South Africans can move across the globe with greater ease,” says De Vries.