South African Tourism continues the fifth edition of its flagship corporate engagement initiative, ‘Corporate Think Tank’, with Kolkata as the fourth stop of this leg

The event welcomed over 25 corporate leaders and provided a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and explore new avenues for collaboration.

As the fourth and final city in the four-city series, Kolkata marked the conclusion of this initiative aimed at strengthening connections between South African Tourism and India’s corporate sector. Through thought-provoking discussions, immersive destination showcases, and interactive networking sessions, the ‘Corporate Think Tank’ served as a strategic platform to spotlight South Africa’s growing appeal as a premier destination for business events, MICE, and leisure travel.

Kolkata has emerged as a strategic focus market for South African Tourism, driven by its strong presence across sectors such as IT, BFSI, manufacturing, trading, and education, along with a steadily expanding base of corporate and young professional travellers. With growing outbound travel aspirations and an increasing appetite for incentive travel, conferences, and immersive leisure experiences, South African Tourism is strategically positioning Kolkata as a high-potential source market for both MICE and leisure travel to South Africa.

“The Corporate Think Tank serves as a strategic platform for us to engage directly with India’s corporate leaders and gain deeper insights into their evolving travel priorities,” said Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager – Asia, Australia, and Middle East, South African Tourism. “We are pleased to bring this initiative to Kolkata, a city with a strong legacy as a commercial hub, supported by sectors such as IT, BFSI, manufacturing, trading, and emerging service-led enterprises.

The discussions in Kolkata have been both insightful and future-focused, reaffirming the city’s growing relevance as a source market for South Africa’s MICE segment. As India continues to be among our fastest-growing markets, we remain committed to strengthening corporate partnerships and welcoming a greater number of business events and incentive groups from Kolkata to South Africa.”

With 47% of India’s population currently aged 15 to 54, MICE is projected to rise to 60% by 2025 and 56% by 2050 corporate spending on overseas events, expanding infrastructure, and enhanced global connectivity are set to propel India into a global MICE powerhouse, positioning South Africa as a natural and compelling partner in this upward journey. This growth is fueled by India’s booming outbound travel market, the world’s second fastest growing after China, driven by a youthful and educated population, a rising middle class, and increasing disposable incomes.

South Africa has emerged as a leading destination for MICE travel from India, with its diversity of offerings ranging from over 3,000 adventure activities and iconic wildlife safaris to scenic road trips and awe-inspiring natural beauty all of which can be experienced within a week. The Rainbow Nation’s ability to deliver rewarding, cost-effective, and value-driven experiences has made it a top choice for Indian corporates seeking memorable incentive getaways, with SAT consistently building a strong reputation as a trusted partner in this space. 

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