The growing partnership between South Africa and India is set to bring significant economic benefits to both nations, with Cape Town leading the charge in fostering trade, tourism, and investment.
As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India presents numerous opportunities for South Africa to tap into, particularly in sectors such as information technology, business process outsourcing (BPO), tourism, and manufacturing.
James Vos, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, recently led an ambitious trade mission to India aimed at expanding Cape Town’s business opportunities and strengthening ties between the two countries.
The mission focused on securing investment, increasing air connectivity, and promoting tourism, all key factors in driving economic growth and job creation in the Mother City. Cape Town's delegation also launched the “Choose Cape Town” campaign, unveiling billboards in key locations across India.
A targeted digital marketing initiative on Meta platforms further promoted Cape Town's tourism and economic strengths.
Vos explained to Weekend Argus why India represented itself as such a strong partnership.
“India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and a key trading partner for South Africa,” Vos explained.
“By engaging directly with Indian businesses, airlines, and travel operators, we aim to unlock new opportunities for Cape Town-based businesses to expand, while boosting tourism and creating jobs.”
A major focus of the trade mission was advocating for direct flights between Cape Town and India, a move Vos believes would open up immense opportunities for both trade and tourism.
“Improved air connectivity will make it easier for Indian businesses and travelers to access Cape Town’s dynamic market,” he said.
The City’s efforts to strengthen tourism ties with India were also evident in their collaboration with Indian tourism operators, highlighting Cape Town’s unique offerings and simplifying visa processes for Indian travelers.
Through the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme, Cape Town aims to streamline visa processing, making it easier for Indian tourists to visit and contributing to the local tourism economy.
In addition to tourism, the trade mission focused heavily on the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, one of Cape Town’s most vital industries.
This partnership is expected to create a pathway for job creation and investment in both nations.
Furthermore, the trade mission explored potential collaborations in the technology sector, including working with India’s growing IT market.
A promising partnership with MoveInSync, a Bengaluru-based firm, highlights the potential for innovation-driven growth between the two regions.
As Vos put it, “This is about building long-term relationships and creating opportunities for sustained growth.
"We are excited about the future of this partnership and the potential it holds for Cape Town and India.”
Enver Duminy, CEO, Cape Town Tourism, commented on the growing importance of India as a key partner for Cape Town’s tourism and economic growth.
"India is not just Cape Town’s next big tourism opportunity—it’s a strategic growth partner. With 14.4 million long-haul outbound travellers in 2023 and projections soaring to 50 million by 2030, India represents one of the world’s most dynamic and valuable source markets. These travellers are experience-driven, culturally curious, and increasingly mobile—making Cape Town a natural match.
"From cinematic destination weddings and wine-region escapes to cricket tourism and heritage exploration, our city offers unforgettable moments across every life stage. And with the ICC Cricket World Cup coming to South Africa in 2027, we have a golden opportunity to celebrate our shared passion for the game.
"Cape Town is also fast becoming a hub for remote workers and digital nomads—a lifestyle that resonates with India’s rising generation of globally minded professionals. We’re not just welcoming visitors—we’re building lasting bridges between our people, economies, and stories."
Indian IT Minister Priyank Kharge commented on the strong history forged between South Africa and India, rooted with many commonalities.
About the plan, Kharge said he is looking forward to exploring how the two cities can share best practices, innovate and grow.
The minister highlighted the launch of MoveInSync, a workplace app developed by a Bengaluru-based firm, now available in Cape Town. The platform aims to streamline employee commuting, transportation, parking, and workplace services.
In a statement to Indian media, Akash Maheshwari, co-founder of MoveInSync, said:
“MoveInSync, Bengaluru’s own innovation, is now expanding in Cape Town. This collaboration between governments opens up more opportunities for sharing technologies and innovations across industries.”