Thaindian News

By Abhishek Roy
Johannesburg, June 27 (IANS) For Indians the World Cup has been the best way to celebrate their 150th year of migration to the rainbow nation. The mega event has not only boosted the economy of the country but also the business of the Indians.

The South African economy has seen an initial boost in visitor spending during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. According to figures made available by Visa, spending by international visitors in South Africa on Visa-branded payment cards exceeded $128 million (Rands 974 million), up 54 per cent from $83 million (Rands 629 million) during the same period in 2009.

The strong Indian community here, known for their business acumen, is trying to make the best out of event. From hotel owners, restaurateurs to shop owners, all are thriving on the World Cup.

A walk down Fordsburg, an Indian dominated suburb in Johannesburg, shows how Indians are using World Cup to boost their economy.

Hiten Patel, who owns a hair dressing salon, has made some make shift arrangement in his shop to sell fake team jerseys and head gears. He has already made huge profit and with still two weeks left he wants to go for the kill.

“Business is good….All foreigners come here to eat in the restaurants and buy team jerseys and jackets. We have made a huge profit from the World Cup and hope to make more,” Patel told IANS.

Ahmad Patel, whose forefather’s failed from Gujarat’s Kutch, has set up a stall selling kebabs and tandoori’s and as night falls in chilly Johannesburg there is a beeline of customers outside his stall.

Patel works in a local factory and in the evening with the help of his family members runs the kebab stall.

“Just before the World Cup the idea to set-up a stall struck me and I had to pay a hefty amount as a rent for this place. But with the profit I made I have covered all cost,” he said.

Even the Indian hoteliers in an around Jozi, as Johannesburg is called by locals, have their hotels full.

The Crowne Lodge, owned by an Indian, is located between the two major World Cup venues of Ellis Park and Soccer City in Johannesburg, and is full with spectators and media personnel.

“This is the time not only to make business but to promote it among the outsiders. Before the World Cup we went on an aggressive marketing drive and now we are enjoying the profits,” said Amin, the owner of the hotel.