South Africa business events leadership was firmly reinforced following a successful showing at IMEX Frankfurt 2026, where the country strengthened global partnerships and showcased its world-class capability as Africa’s leading destination for international conferences and business travel.

Held from 19 to 21 May 2026, IMEX Frankfurt once again brought together the world’s top business events professionals, providing South Africa with a strategic platform to elevate its global presence in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.

The country’s participation followed its top ranking in the 2025 ICCA Country Rankings, where South Africa secured the number one position on the continent for hosting international association meetings.

South Africa Retains Africa’s Top ICCA Ranking

According to the latest International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Globewatch Business Analytics 2025 Report, South Africa hosted 115 international association meetings, reaffirming its competitiveness on the global stage.

Cape Town also retained its position as Africa’s leading city for international association meetings, underscoring the country’s consistent ability to deliver premium business event experiences.

This recognition reflects years of investment in business event infrastructure, destination readiness and strategic industry collaboration.

IMEX Frankfurt 2026 Strengthens Global Partnerships

South Africa’s presence at IMEX Frankfurt created valuable opportunities to connect with global industry leaders, buyers and decision-makers while further positioning the country as a destination where business and exceptional travel experiences converge.

Corne Koch, Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the South African National Convention Bureau, said the country’s strong performance at IMEX reflects growing international confidence in South Africa’s event-hosting expertise.

“South Africa’s continued leadership in the ICCA rankings is a strong reflection of our ability to compete globally while leading continentally,” said Koch. “Our participation at IMEX Frankfurt 2026 allowed us to strengthen strategic partnerships, showcase our diverse destination offering and reaffirm South Africa as an innovative, connected and future-focused business events destination.”

Business Events Continue to Drive Economic Impact

South Africa’s business events industry continues to deliver benefits that extend well beyond tourism revenue.

International conferences hosted across the country contribute to:

  • Knowledge exchange and sector collaboration
  • Skills development and innovation transfer
  • Trade and investment growth
  • Policy-shaping conversations across critical industries

Events focused on sectors such as healthcare, sustainability and renewable energy continue to leave meaningful legacies that support long-term national development.

South Africa’s Nationwide Business Events Footprint Expands

South Africa’s success is anchored by a strong national offering of premium venues, accessibility and authentic destination experiences.

Cities including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Stellenbosch, Tshwane and Durban hosted between 8 and 55 international meetings, while emerging destinations such as Sun City, Paarl and Pilanesberg continue to gain traction within the global business events landscape.

This growth reflects South Africa’s ability to combine business excellence with rich cultural experiences that elevate every delegate journey.

Looking Ahead for South African Business Tourism

Following a successful IMEX Frankfurt 2026, South Africa remains focused on driving tourism growth, expanding global market access and strengthening its reputation as Africa’s most competitive host for international business events.

As global demand for destination-led business travel continues to rise, South Africa is well positioned to lead the continent into the future of business tourism.