IATO Seeks Strategic Export Sector Status For Tourism To Double Economic Contribution To 10%

New Delhi, Sep 15 (KNN) India’s tourism industry needs stronger policy support, sustained global marketing and improved connectivity to double its contribution to the economy to 10 per cent from around 5 per cent, the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) said at its annual convention.

The association said inbound tourism could become a stronger source of foreign exchange earnings, employment and MSME growth if India shifts from fragmented promotional campaigns to a sustained global marketing strategy.

IATO Seeks Strategic Export Sector Status

IATO has sought ‘Strategic Export Sector’ status for tourism, arguing that the industry generates foreign exchange and supports a wide ecosystem of businesses, including MSMEs.

IATO president Ravi Gosain said tourism should be treated as a strategic economic opportunity rather than only a service sector, with seamless connectivity, skilled manpower and a simpler visitor journey from visa application to last-mile travel, reported Money Control.

The association said it has trained more than 600 tour operators in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) and is also launching a responsible tourism mission.

Aviation Connectivity Key To Tourism Growth

Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu said aviation and tourism have a ‘symbiotic’ relationship, with better air connectivity helping expand India’s tourism footprint.

India’s airport count has increased from 74 in 2014 to 166 currently, he said. The extended UDAN programme envisages an investment of Rs 28,840 crore to develop 100 additional airports over the next decade.

Global Promotion, New Tourism Circuits

IATO has proposed a joint working mechanism with the Andhra Pradesh government to develop tourism circuits and marketable experiences across the state.

The association has also launched the Namaste India Roadshow in Europe and plans further international promotional initiatives after the World Travel Market in November.

The annual convention, held from September 10 to 13, brought together more than 1,000 delegates from the travel, hospitality and tourism sectors.

(KNN Bureau)