With days to go before WTM Africa starts in Cape Town, over 500 exhibitors are set to participate in the fair, all nine of South Africa’s provinces and the National Department of Tourism.

WTM Africa, set to be hosted from April 3–5 in Cape Town’s CTICC, anticipates facilitating a record number of transactions this year as registrations rise. According to a press statement issued by the organisers, the National Department of Tourism and all nine of South Africa’s provinces will be among the more than 500 exhibitors staking their claims on the exhibition floor. Egypt, Turkey, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, and the Maldives are just a few examples of destinations with representatives that are destination-driven, says the statement.

“With a killer show programme and high-profile delegates expected to attend, it’s no surprise we’re seeing last-minute attendees jumping in line,” says Megan de Jager, Portfolio Director, Travel, Tourism & Creative Industries Portfolio at RX Africa.

“78 pc of our confirmed buyers are international, with 21 pc hailing from across the continent. What’s most exciting is our list of first-time buyers opening the door to seven new and diverse markets, including Thailand, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Armenia, Romania and San Romano,” adds de Jager.

The statement added that attendees can anticipate a redesigned content programme guided by industry experts addressing everything from industry trends to IT, sustainability, and marketing. This will be in addition to a tried-and-true mix of pre-scheduled meetings and highly sought-after speed networking sessions. The WTM Africa bolt-on shows, which take place concurrently at the CTICC, are back by popular demand. These free-to-attend events include IBTM, Equal Africa, Travel Tech, Responsible Tourism, Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) and the Africa Tourism Investment Summit (ATIS).

“Over just three days, you will have the chance to meet with thousands of potential clients, reconnect with industry peers and come away inspired with new ideas. WTM Africa 2023 promises to be one of the most important and exciting to date. Miss it and miss out!” says De Jager.