Cape Town Convention Centre eyes its privatization... and its expansion

Opened in 2003 and widely regarded as the jewel of business travel in South Africa, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) spans nearly 141,000 square meters and is divided into two connected facilities, CTICC 1 and CTICC 2, linked by an aerial bridge. Together, the venue can host more than 22,000 delegates while accommodating several events simultaneously.

Each year, the complex stages around 100 conferences, exhibitions, banquets, and cultural events, including the internationally renowned Cape Town International Jazz Festival. The convention centre also hosts major international events that position Cape Town as a gateway to Africa, including Mining Indaba, one of the world’s largest mining investment events. The CTICC continued success is also closely tied to Cape Town’s strong tourism infrastructure and extensive supply of high-quality hotels.

Expansion ambitions gain momentum
In recent months, plans for expanding the CTICC have gained traction, prompting the City of Cape Town to consider selling its stake in the venue.

Siseko Mbandezi, the city’s executive committee member for finance, has emerged as a key supporter of the proposed sale of the municipality’s 72.7% shareholding in the CTICC. The move would allow the city to redirect funds toward public services and infrastructure investment programs.

“We believe this municipal stake, valued at approximately USD235.5 million (SAR885 million), is ready for private-sector investment in order to unlock the tremendous commercial potential of this asset,” Mbandezi said.

The process, which remains subject to approval and voting procedures, is expected to take between two and three years to complete.

For CTICC management, this could create access to greater private-sector investment, while favouring a future expansion. Nothing about more concrete expansion plans have emerged for the time being. All has yet to be defined.

Cape Town targets global outsourcing market
The CTICC’s long-term strategy is also being shaped by geopolitical uncertainty and evolving global business travel patterns.

Cape Town authorities and local industry groups are increasingly focused on capturing a share of the rapidly growing global outsourcing market, currently dominated by India. The city aims to develop international competence centres and high-value outsourcing platforms that multinational corporations could use for specialized business functions.

A major advantage is the shared time zone between Europe and South Africa, which supports easier collaboration for international companies. Meanwhile, the CTICC is currently closely monitoring geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, and the impact on corporate travel budgets. With worries about inflated air fares due to higher fuel costs, which could generate cancellations or postponements.

Cape Town International Convention Centre will be present at IMEX Frankfurt 2026 at Stand D520.