The 2010 FIFA World Cup could provide the stimulus needed to help South Africa avoid the worst of the current economic crisis, with expectations that Tourism revenue will boost the country’s coffers by R15-billion.

Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk said the World Cup is estimated to contribute R50-billion to the economy from construction investment, with R15.6-billion generated by tourism.

South Africa can expect 3.5-million participants during the 4-week soccer event, of which 1.3-million are expected to be tourists. About 445,000 are expected to be foreign arrivals.

“Our successful hosting of the FIFA Confederations Cup, DLF Indian Premier League and the British Lions Tour in the last few weeks reconfirmed our readiness to host this world-class event,” said van Schalkwyk.

The British Lions Tour alone attracted 40,000 international supporters, largely from the UK, and generated estimated revenues of more than R1-billion, he noted.