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S.Africa sees 2010 World Cup costs rise up to 20 pct

A construction worker is seen at the FNB stadium in Johannesburg October 23, 2007. Projected costs for South Africa's preparations to host the 2010 soccer World Cup could be up to 20 percent higher due to factors such as rising steel and cement prices, the deputy finance minister said on Tuesday. (Reuters photo)

South African deputy finance minister Jabu Moleketi says that the tournament for the 2010 Football World Cup could go 20 per cent over budget,as cement, steel and other key building material prices are rising along with labor costs,and world cup construction sites have been disrupted by a string of strikes. Moleketi however,is confident about their country's all-round abilities in holding such a event.

South African, deputy finance minister Jabu Moleketi(File photo)

Moleketi said,"We know that on the 25th of November, South Africa will be hosting one of the official FIFA events which is the preliminary draw and I think this is an occasion that will demonstrate our ability as South Africa not just to host, but also to demonstrate our technical, organizational and professional capacities in hosting such major events."

Editor:Yang Jie