Following constructive discussions with INDABA bid parties and the broader tourism industry in KwaZulu-Natal, South African Tourism has taken the decision to revert to a 4-day INDABA.
This follows a previous decision that would have seen INDABA 2013 reduced from the usual 4 days to 3 days. INDABA 2013 will now take place from 11 to 14 May 2013 at Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
Thanking the stakeholders for their input, Thulani Nzima, South African Tourism (SAT) CEO, said it made business sense for stakeholders to continue holding the show over 4 days instead of 3.
He added that SAT was working to ensure a positive INDABA 2013 experience for all delegates and on improving the already strong product mix. 'We are confident the show will retain its important status in generating business for South Africa’s travel trade and provide considerable value for local and international buyers,’ he said.
Exhibitors at INDABA 2013 face a 6% inflation-related increase to exhibit their products at the show. 'While we have tried to shield exhibitors from these increased costs, the costs of hiring the INDABA venue have gone up an average of 20% in the last 3 years, and so regrettably the increase is unavoidable,” Nzima explained.
However, TOMSA (Tourism Marketing South Africa) levy payers, who are the main stand holders at INDABA, will receive a 10% discount.
'We advise all tourism products to check that they are in good standing with TOMSA by the end of November, so as to be able to benefit from this discount,' Nzima said.
To further enhance the quality and business environment at INDABA 2013, SAT has made the criteria for visitors to INDABA stricter. It will allow local trade visitors access to the show from 12 to 14 May, while students will only have access on 14 May.
SAT continuously reviews INDABA and will shortly announce fundamental changes to the show that will take place from 2014 onwards. For more information on INDABA 2013 and for details on how to register to attend,visit the INDABA website or contact Jermaine Craig at SAT -TelPhone: +27 (0)11 895 3000 or E-mail: Jermaine@southafrica.net.