Gauteng is set to host the world’s leaders as it hosts the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025, marking a significant milestone for business tourism in Gauteng.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi expressed enthusiasm over the Cabinet’s decision to bring the summit to the province, noting the tremendous impact on both the province and the country.
“We are ready to partner with the national government and all partners to ensure the summit is successful.”
The event is expected to attract thousands of international delegates, placing Johannesburg in the global spotlight and supporting Gauteng’s broader goal of expanding its business tourism sector.
This aligns with Gauteng’s economic growth plans, particularly in the tourism industry, which is projected to drive the national economic recovery.
According to the World Tourism Travel Council, South Africa’s travel and tourism sector is poised to grow at an annual rate of 7.6% over the next decade, with Gauteng at the forefront
Over the medium-term expenditure framework, the tourism sector in Gauteng is anticipated to generate over R120 billion from international arrivals revenue and R50 billion from domestic tourism while creating over 10 000 jobs through downstream and upstream value-chain opportunities.
The province will also host the Gauteng Investment Conference in February 2025.
“Through this conference, we want to showcase investment opportunities in Gauteng, foster collaboration, and demonstrate the ease of doing business within the Gauteng City Region.
“The conference will have a sector-focused approach that covers the principles of climate sustainability, transformation, and inclusive industrialisation.”
Lesufi said the conference will provide a platform to showcase Gauteng’s potential for growth in critical sectors by emphasising the principles of climate sustainability, transformation, and inclusive industrialisation.
This, he added, will also allow investors to engage in projects that align with both financial returns and social impact, promoting a sustainable and inclusive economic development trajectory for Gauteng.
The key to these events’ success is revitalising the Johannesburg CBD.
He said this would bolster the cause of a safer, crime-free province. The City of Johannesburg has successfully won court judgements to reclaim 12 hijacked buildings.
“We are pleased that the Khampepe Commission is currently receiving representations on reclaiming hijacked buildings, and we are looking forward to their final report at the end of January 2025.”
