There is renewed momentum for corporate travel across Africa with nearly half (46%) of customers in EMEA planning to increase their travel spend in FY26, according to Flight Centre Travel Group’s annual global State of the Market survey.
This represents a significant rise from last year’s 39%, reflecting growing confidence among businesses as economic headwinds begin to ease.
Notably, only 7% of respondents in the region now anticipate reducing their travel budgets – a dramatic fall from 21% last year – further signalling business travel is being prioritised as a strategic lever for growth.
The positive outlook comes as recent interest rate decreases signal improving macroeconomic conditions and renewed optimism among corporates across southern Africa.
Mummy Mafojane, GM at FCM Travel Southern Africa, says the positive sentiment reflected renewed confidence among South African corporates as economic conditions improve.
“These global results are particularly encouraging for the South African market where we’re seeing strong momentum,” Mafojane says. “Companies are recognising that business travel is essential infrastructure for growth, not just an expense. Our recent launch of FCM Meetings & Events in South Africa has already captured significant interest from mining and financial services sectors who understand that face-to-face engagement drives real business outcomes.”
Herman Heunes, GM at Corporate Traveller South Africa, says the findings validated what his team was seeing on the ground with South African SMEs and mid-market companies.
“The survey results confirm that sentiment is shifting – companies are ready to back growth with increased travel budgets,” he says. “We’re seeing dynamic South African businesses who view travel as a strategic investment rather than a cost centre. Our rebrand in the last financial year has really helped us connect with this new generation of businesses who appreciate our modern identity and approach.”
Globally, 9% of customers surveyed intend to spend over 20% more on their travel; 36% plan to increase by up to 20% more; and 37%believe the amount spent will be similar to last year.