Hanoi held the “Vietnam-South Africa Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion Conference: Destination Hanoi – Opportunities and Potential for Cooperation” on October 29 in Pretoria, South Africa to enhance Hanoi’s economic connections, specifically in investment, trade, tourism, and export markets with African countries, with particular emphasis on South Africa.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Tuyen, Member of the Party Central Committee and Permanent Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee, speaks at the conference. Photo: Hong Minh/VNA

The conference brought together key officials and representatives from both Vietnam and South Africa. Leading Hanoi’s delegation were senior officials, including Nguyen Thi Tuyen, Permanent Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee; Hoang Trong Quyet, Chairman of the Hanoi Party Committee’s Inspection Commission; Duong Duc Tuan, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee; and Hoang Sy Cuong, Vietnam’s Ambassador to South Africa. Nearly 200 South African representatives attended, with the presence of Mtho Xulu, President of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as numerous business leaders from sectors such as investment, trade, and tourism.

Nguyen Thi Tuyen underscored the purpose of the conference as a platform to showcase Hanoi’s favorable business environment. “Hanoi is committed to fostering economic ties with South Africa and is ready to create the best possible conditions for South African businesses and investors to thrive in Hanoi.” 

The event featured presentations on Hanoi’s economic landscape, introducing South African businesses to the city’s advancements in infrastructure, its dynamic tourism sector, and opportunities within its rapidly growing economy. City representatives also highlighted incentives for foreign investors, detailing supportive policies that Hanoi has implemented to attract international businesses. The discussions centered on leveraging Hanoi’s strategic position as a gateway for South African businesses to access the broader Southeast Asian market.

Mtho Xulu and other South African business leaders expressed strong interest in exploring Hanoi’s diverse market, particularly in areas like tourism, agriculture, and technology. As part of the conference, delegates explored potential joint projects, including partnerships in sustainable tourism, agricultural technology, and renewable energy initiatives.

The conference also spotlighted Hanoi’s expanding tourism appeal, encouraging South African travel and hospitality firms to consider the city as an emerging destination with a blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and modern infrastructure. With presentations on Hanoi’s iconic attractions and growing range of travel amenities, the city invited South African stakeholders to explore tourism partnerships aimed at promoting Hanoi as a must-visit location for African tourists.