Reinforcing its long-standing focus on the Indian outbound market, South African Tourism on Wednesday announced the 2026 edition of its Annual India Multi-City Roadshow, scheduled to be held across Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Delhi. Now in its 22nd edition, the roadshow will commence alongside South African Tourism’s participation at Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) Mumbai 2026, India’s largest travel trade exhibition. The roadshow will be held from February 5 to 7 in Mumbai, followed by engagements in the remaining four cities between February 9 and 12. India remains one of South Africa’s priority source markets, driven by steady business travel, MICE demand and sustained visits to friends and relatives, reflecting strong bilateral and people-to-people ties.
Led by Mr Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australasia and the Middle East, the initiative will feature over 41 South African exhibitors, including eight SMMEs. Notably, 17.1 per cent of participating exhibitors will showcase new products and experiences, highlighting emerging destinations and evolving travel segments.
Kolkata continues to be an important eastern gateway for long-haul outbound travel, supported by a growing base of corporate travellers, incentive groups and culturally inclined leisure tourists. Travel trade stakeholders in the city have shown rising interest in experience-led itineraries, wildlife, luxury travel and MICE offerings, positioning South Africa as a strong fit for Kolkata’s evolving outbound travel profile. South African Tourism said initiatives such as the Electronic Travel Authorisation system, the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme and discussions on enhanced air connectivity, including potential direct flights, are expected to further boost travel flows between India and South Africa.