Unlocking tourism potential between China and South Africa

This week, the Daily News had the opportunity to engage directly with the Chinese Consul General in Durban, Li Zhigong, who showcased the vast opportunities for tourism and travel between China and South Africa.

With a shared vision of fostering stronger bilateral ties, the consul general outlined strategic initiatives aimed at not just facilitating travel but also enriching the cultural exchange between the two nations.

One of the primary focuses of the Consulate General is to promote high-level exchanges between sister cities and provinces.

"These efforts help spark greater interest in China among local communities and foster closer people-to-people ties," Li explained.

Efforts include enhanced communication and collaboration on tourism initiatives, underpinned by a commitment to mutual understanding and friendship.

In a notable development this year, the consulate has initiated an express visa option, designed to streamline the application process for Chinese tourists wishing to visit South Africa.

"The express visa can be processed within three to four working days with simple and user-friendly requirements," Li said.

This is a significant improvement, especially when the visa process has previously been a major hurdle for potential visitors.

For South African tourism operators eager to attract Chinese visitors, Li offered several crucial recommendations. He urged operators to tailor their offerings to better meet the preferences of Chinese visitors.

"This includes providing services in Chinese, accepting payment methods like UnionPay and Alipay, and promoting destinations through Chinese social media platforms," he said.

Cultural sensitivity and a welcoming atmosphere are also vital in creating memorable travel experiences for Chinese tourists.

The consul general acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced in attracting more tourists due to the complexities surrounding the visa application process.

"We are actively engaging with the South African Department of Home Affairs, as obtaining a South African visa remains time-consuming and difficult for Chinese citizens," Li said,

As for South Africans considering travel to China, the consulate has specific travel guidelines aimed at ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

According to Li, visitors are encouraged to meticulously plan their itineraries and familiarise themselves with essential apps such as WeChat, Alipay, and translation tools, as these are critical for navigating the vast cultural landscape.

He added that key destinations such as Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai are highly recommended and travellers are advised to respect local customs and be aware of the legal framework to ensure a harmonious visit.

"We truly hope more South Africans will visit China to see and experience more for themselves. South Africa is not only a partner but also a brother to China, and we sincerely wish for our people to grow closer and develop deeper mutual understanding," said Li.

*This is Part 4 of a series of exclusive interviews that the Chinese Consul General in Durban, Li Zhigong, granted the Daily News' editor, Ayanda Mdluli.

DAILY NEWS