The 130th running of the Hollywoodbets Durban July has turned Durban into a hub of fashion, business and entertainment, with officials highlighting its wider economic impact beyond the racecourse.

The 130th edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July is expected to generate about R245 million for KwaZulu-Natal and create employment and business opportunities, says Economic Development MEC Reverend Musa Zondi.

The event is being held on Saturday at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in Durban under the theme Country Allure, attracting thousands of visitors, celebrities, media personalities and fashion enthusiasts.

Zondi said the Durban July is a major boost for the provincial economy.

“It's a big boost, as I said yesterday, because this one event, which we are witnessing today, goes very far, not only to the hotels, to the city of eThekwini, but it boosts the entire economy of KwaZulu-Natal.”