Category Archives: Associations

The 2024 edition of the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) released by World Economic Forum states that India has climbed to the 39th position, while US topped the list. India also ranks the highest in South Asia among the lower-middle-income economies. Earlier, India was ranked 54th in 2021 published index. Covering 119 economies, the TTDI measures the set of factors and policies that enable the sustainable and resilient development of the sector, which in turn contributes to the development of a country.

MTF invites the travel trade industry to Melangé, an exclusive industry partnership event designed to create new friendships and business collaborations. This unique, focused, and dynamic two-day event to be held on 19 & 20!Sept 2024 is tailored for exhibitors and buyers of diverse travel products. Special offers are available for early birds who register before 31st May. MTF Style Event at one of the most premier venues in India –  Jio Convention Centre BKC. Pradeep Saboo, Organiser, MTF, says, “We understand the power of meaningful connections and innovative collaborations. Our event offers a carefully curated environment where your products and services will be showcased to an audience of discerning buyers ready to explore new opportunities. Melangé is your platform to engage with industry leaders, present cutting-edge travel solutions, and foster impactful business relationships. Join us at Melangé, elevate your brand, connect with key decision-makers, and be part of an event that prioritizes quality interactions over quantity. Seize this opportunity to network, inspire, and be inspired. Let’s create a vibrant mosaic of collaborations and drive the travel industry forward together. Your participation at Melangé is not just an exhibition; it’s an investment in the future of travel.” A special offer is available for exhibiting partners is available. Registrations done before 31 May, 2024 will lead to : A) 50% discount on the published price B) With Category D, a Gold Sponsorship will be offered gratis C) With Category E, a Platinum Sponsorship will be offered gratis Register as an exhibitor here:  https://mtf.events/melange-exhibitors-registration/    

Recently concluded PATA Annual Summit in Macao has set a new record for industry, attracting an impressive turnout of over 400 delegates from more than 25 destinations. This remarkable number of registrations marks the highest in PATA’s history since COVID, signalling the unwavering determination of industry professionals to rebuild and reimagine tourism.

While suggesting to reimagine tourism at PATA’s Annual Summit in Peter Semone, Chair, PATA, stated, “To improve existing models of tourism, we have to incorporate principles of ecotourism, promote cultural exchange, leverage technology for more immersive experiences, and prioritise the well-being of local communities.”

In a bid to boost tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, FHRAI organised a pivotal gathering of tourism stakeholders. The event ignited discussions to propel Union Territory’s tourism development through regulatory frameworks, facilitating investments, and implementing innovative marketing strategies to showcase J&K as a premier tourist destination.

Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency announces its partnership with the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India to organise a mega familiarisation (FAM) trip for its members from 30 June to 6 July. The initiative is dedicated to highlighting the myriad attractions of Türkiye to Indian travel agents. A total of 40 OTOAI members from across India will be participating in this exciting endeavour, representing diverse regions and tourism interests.

As per International Air Transport Association (IATA), in March 2024, there was 13.8 per cent increase in global passenger demand vis-a-vis the same month in 2023. International passenger demand saw a rise of 18.9 per cent compared to March 2023, while domestic demand rose to 6.6 per cent, showcasing a positive landscape for aviation industry.

Demand for travel is strong, says Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, adding, “That means making urgent progress to resolve supply chain issues and for airports and air traffic management to be fully staffed and operating at maximum efficiency. While airlines are prepared for customer care and assistance when operational issues arise, they are fed-up of bearing the cost when delays and cancellations are the result of poor preparation in other parts of the value chain.”

On 1 May, German taxes on flying increased by 19% to between EUR 15.53 and EUR 70.83 per passenger, depending on the route. The tax will make Germany less competitive in key economic areas such as exports, tourism, and jobs. It will further affect Germany’s air transport recovery from the pandemic, which is one of the slowest in the EU. Germany’s international passenger numbers, for example, are still 20% below pre-pandemic levels.

Speaking about how India’s hospitality sector is leading the charge for sustainability, Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI, says, “This shift towards sustainability is driven by the sector’s acknowledgement of its environmental impact. The hospitality industry is responsible for 1-2% of global carbon emissions, a figure expected to rise. Therefore, it has become imperative for hotels and resorts to take action to mitigate their footprint. The sector aims to reduce emissions by 66% per room by 2030 and 90% by 2050 to prevent emissions from surging.”