Africa’s premier hospitality expo returns to Cape Town

This week, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, cut the ribbon and delivered the opening address at the Hotel and Hospitality Expo Africa, taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Read more below:

Now in its ninth year, the expo brings together hospitality industry suppliers and buyers from across Africa for a packed programme that includes workshops, panel discussions and business-to-business engagements.

‘This gathering brings together the people who create experiences, build businesses, welcome visitors, employ thousands of people and help shape how the world sees our city and our continent. Hospitality is far more than hotels and restaurants. It is one of the most powerful economic multipliers we have. Every guest who checks into a hotel supports a value chain that stretches across transport, attractions, food production, retail, technology, events, cultural experiences and countless small businesses,’ said Alderman Vos in his address.

Hospitality is a core category within tourism, an industry that employed 106 358 Capetonians in 2025, according to Cape Town Tourism (CTT). CTT’s newly released 2025 Economic Value of Tourism report further revealed that the industry generated R24,5 billion in direct tourism spend last year.

‘Travellers today are more discerning than ever before. Increasingly, visitors are choosing places that demonstrate care for people, communities and the planet. That is why responsible tourism will feature strongly in our new tourism strategy.

‘We want to ensure that growth is sustainable, that destinations are managed responsibly, and that the products and experiences we offer remain world-class for generations to come. And that is exactly why this expo excites me. I see businesses on this exhibition floor that are embracing innovation, improving quality, adopting greener practices, enhancing guest experiences and raising industry standards. What is on display here is far more than products and services. It is a glimpse into the future of hospitality,’ said Alderman Vos.

The Hotel and Hospitality Expo Africa is running in conjunction with the Africa Food Show from 10-12 June and is geared primarily towards trade professionals. While access is free, registration is essential to enter the expo. Visit the website https://www.thehotelshowafrica.com/ for more information.