Limpopo tourism and investment officials have expressed optimism about a substantial increase in business partnerships with investors from China in the near future.

Addressing members of a Chinese trade delegation during an open exchange of views at Mabalingwe Country Club, 30 km from Bela Bela, Limpopo Tourism and Parks Chief Executive Mr Benny Boshielo highlighted the many investment opportunities available in the province's tourism sector.

He pointed out that accommodation rates in Limpopo were affordable, compared to other parts of the country, where some holiday destinations were "pricing themselves out of the market".

The visiting delegation showed interest in the commercialisation of Limpopo's nature reserves and other related ecotourism projects in the province.

Trade and Investment Limpopo (TIL) officials provided valuable inputs regarding the present economic climate in Limpopo, and renewed their commitment to attract foreign investors to the province.

TIL Director for International Operations Mr Manobile Shogole pointed out that the N1 route, which goes right through Limpopo, handled about 18 000 heavy-duty trips per month. This gave some indication of the scope of trade between South Africa and its neighbouring countries.

Shogole said the province's strategic location, its abundance of raw materials and its readily available labour force, were among the many positive factors which attracted foreign investors. He expressed the hope that Limpopo would soon be welcoming many more investors and tourists from China.