Tag Archives: India

Federico J. Gonzalez, Executive Vice Chairman, Radisson Hotel Group, said, “India has the potential to be the number one hospitality market globally for Radisson Hotel Group.” The economic growth in India is significant. But, besides the economic growth and the growth in population and infrastructure, the ambition and dynamism of Indians is one of a kind. The hotel chain should aim to have 500 hotels in the country by 2030, he added.

From lush mountains to pristine islands, 2025 is the year of eco-conscious tourism, authentic experiences, and mindful exploration. According to the Agoda 2025 Sustainable Travel Survey, India has emerged as the second-most sustainability-conscious travel market in Asia, with a staggering 82% of Indian travellers making eco-friendly choices—far surpassing the Asian average of 68%. India’s Sikkim is among the top sustainable travel destinations for 2025.

As Australia and India continue to strengthen their trade ties under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), the demand for premium Australian agrifood products in India is rapidly increasing. The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) in partnership with the state governments of Queensland and New South Wales is bringing together 11 Australian brands to display their products at the Australian Pavilion located at Hall No.1, Stand No.1G-02A in Aahar 2025. Aahar 2025 serves as a significant platform for Australian food and beverage companies to showcase their world-class quality, innovation, and sustainability. With a strong reputation for high food safety standards, advanced production techniques, and environmentally sustainable practices, the exhibition will provide an opportunity for Indian buyers, retailers, and food service professionals to explore the superior taste, nutrition and versatility of Australian produce, reinforcing the growing trade opportunities between the two nations. The Australian Pavilion at Aahar 2025 will highlight a diverse portfolio of Australian brands across categories like packaged food, nutritional supplements, and gourmet ingredients to world-renowned meats and seafood. Over 85% of Australian goods exports by value to India are now tariff-free after the AI-ECTA entered into force on 29 December 2022. Australian businesses have a wonderful opportunity to expand their footprint in India’s dynamic market and Aahar is a step towards this – as well as a step toward the provision of further inputs into India’s food processing industry. Speaking about Australia’s participation at Aahar 2025, John Southwell, Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner – South Asia, Australian Trade and Investment Commission, said, “India and Australia share a deep and growing trade relationship, strengthened further by AI-ECTA. Through the implementation of AI-ECTA, Australia’s agrifood exports to India …

Outbound travel from India remained strong, with visa application volumes increasing by 11% Year over Year in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 4%. This increase indicates a recovery and a rise in the number of Indian travellers visiting international destinations. Yummi Talwar, COO—South Asia, VFS Global, said, “India continues to show a strong demand for international travel, and it’s clear that this robust momentum will persist in 2025.”

Horwath HTL report showed that despite economic challenges and the absence of major events, the hospitality sector saw strong growth, with a national occupancy rate of 63.9%, an Average Daily Rate (ADR) of INR7,951, and a 10.7% RevPAR increase. India added 14,400 chain-affiliated rooms, pushing the total supply past 200,00.

Celebrating its 75 years of leadership in hospitality, Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI, said, “We are set to roll out special initiatives and commemorative events throughout the year to elevate the hospitality sector. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to promoting growth, advocating for progressive policies, driving sustainability and strengthening India’s position as a global tourism hub.”

As part of the 13th edition of the annual Traveller Review Awards 2025, Booking.com unveiled the 10 Most Welcoming Places in India and on Earth. Himachal Pradesh was named the Most Welcoming Region in India followed by Kerala and Goa. Bir emerged as the Most Welcoming City in India followed by Mararikulam and Leh.

India’s travel and tourism sector is set for significant expansion. Its valuation is expected to more than double to $523 billion over the next decade. According to Julia Simpson, President, WTTC, the sector, which currently contributes around 7% to India’s GDP and employs approximately 45 million people, is projected to support 63 million jobs by 2034.

India, a prominent exhibitor, showcased its rich cultural and tourism potential at the 45th edition of FITUR 2025 alongside 9,500 companies and 156 countries. Held at IFEMA MADRID, this global event offers a vital platform for fostering tourism collaborations, highlighting India’s growing importance in the international travel and tourism industry.

India recorded an 18% growth in business class travel in H2-2024, emerging as a top destination for global corporates, FCM Travel states. With its strategic importance in global trade and strong economic ties, India continues to attract business travellers. Increased flight capacity, competitive fares, and its appeal as a hub for conferences and meetings have further fuelled this growth, solidifying its position as a key player in the Asia-Pacific travel landscape.