The SA tourist market has continued to grow after the 2010 Fifa World Cup, Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk said on Monday.
"The tournament has positioned South Africa as a viable investment market and a spinoff of improved perceptions abroad could have a long-lasting impact, not only on South Africa and its development, but on the continent as a whole," he told reporters.
The minister said tourist arrivals between January and September increased by 16.8% when compared to the same period in 2009.
"I have no doubt that South Africa is reaping the rewards of hosting the World Cup."
He said 309 000 tourists visited the country for the soccer tournament and spent more than R3.6bn.
