SA thrives despite the anti-foreigner concerns
Can South Africa's tourism sector maintain its growth amidst rising anti-foreigner sentiment?
Amidst rising anti-foreigner sentiment and tensions over immigration, South Africa's tourism sector continues to boom. The country welcomed over 5.5 million international visitors between January and June 2026, marking a 12.3% increase compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from Stats SA. International arrivals surged by 12.3%, driven primarily by tourists from other African nations, while overseas arrivals also climbed.
In June 2026 alone, South Africa saw 823,365 visitors, a 9.8% rise from June 2025. African tourists accounted for a 12.1% year-over-year increase. Despite ongoing friction with the United States, South Africa retained its top overseas tourism market, attracting 40,566 American visitors in June 2026. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille attributed the sector's resilience to diversification efforts, pledging continued collaboration with partners and international markets to boost tourism and expand air connectivity.
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