# South Africa’s tourism industry is feeling the impact of the Iran war, as disruptions to Middle East air routes reduce international flight capacity. Visitor numbers from China have fallen by 20-percent year-on-year, with around 40-percent of scheduled Chinese seats to South Africa lost. Industry leaders say travellers are turning to alternative routes, while higher fuel costs and airfares remain concerns. South African Tourism strategy chief Siyabonga Mthethwa is calling for stronger direct air links with China to avoid conflict zones and secure long-term capacity.
Iran conflict hits Chinese tourism numbers to SA