The World Travel Market Africa took place in the Mother City this week. It was the 6th time that the City hosted this prestigious event.

Last year upwards of 5 800 industry professionals from over 70 countries across the globe attended the show. This represented an overall 17% increase in the number of travel professionals making their way to the city for this event.

Statistics have revealed that a phenomenal $410-million was generated over the three days of business on site last year and all indications are that the potential for this year’s show is even more promising.

The Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Opportunities James Vos says these events showcase Cape Town as a beautiful host city with a unique offering that is able to deliver events of any size successfully.

“Most importantly though for us is the fact that these events are critical to promoting job opportunities and developing the local and South African economy to support our communities. The economic spin-offs from events generate a ripple effect of job creation during and after events. Additionally, the increased visitor spend at our world-famous attractions hold enormous benefits for the city and its residents.”

He says through financial support to the Convention Bureau within Wesgro, our trade and investment promotion agency, they are actively promoting Cape Town to the global village to let the world know that we are open for business.

In the 2017/18 financial year, the Convention Bureau achieved notable success by securing 33 bids with an economic impact of R453 million for the region.

For the current financial year (2018/19) Wesgro’s Convention Bureau has secured 30 bids with an estimated economic value double that of the previous year which is close to R1 billion.

Cape Town hosted 52 international association meetings and 34 000 delegates in the 2017/18 financial year.