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VisitBritain showcases UK tourism to global buyers

VisitBritain is set to welcome over 70 international travel buyers from 11 countries, aiming to enhance the UK's inbound tourism sector, valued at an estimated £34.6 billion in 2025. From 30 January to 5 February, these buyers will embark on educational tours across England, Scotland, and Wales, experiencing the nation's tourism highlights firsthand. Participants from key markets, including the USA, France, and Germany, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain, will explore destinations such as Bath, Birmingham, Dorset, and the Scottish Borders. These visits are designed to promote Britain's newest attractions and experiences in international markets. The initiative is part of VisitBritain's broader strategy to boost the economy by supporting local attractions and hospitality businesses. Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitBritain, emphasised the importance of showcasing Britain's diverse tourism offerings, stating, “Our in-country teams have worked with our nations and regions to produce itineraries, which highlight that Britain is full of fresh, exciting experiences to come and enjoy right now.” The educational tours will also feature film and television experiences linked to VisitBritain's successful 'Starring GREAT Britain' campaign, which has generated $217 million (£217 million) in additional spending by international visitors since its launch in January 2025. Before the tours, buyers will attend the Britain & Ireland Marketplace on 30 January at the InterContinental London – The O2, facilitating networking and business appointments with UK and Irish tourism representatives. This initiative underscores VisitBritain's commitment to driving growth in the tourism sector by fostering international partnerships and promoting the UK's rich cultural heritage. ```

FITUR 2026 boosts global tourism impact

The International Tourism Trade Fair, FITUR 2026, has once again demonstrated its significant influence on global tourism, attracting over 255,000 visitors and generating an economic impact of $505 million for Madrid. Organised by IFEMA MADRID, the event ran for five days and maintained its strong appeal, with professional attendance reaching 155,000 and a 12% increase in international visitors. FITUR 2026 featured more than 10,000 companies from 161 countries, including 111 with official representation, and 967 main exhibitors. The fair's economic contribution also supported 3,753 jobs, cementing its status as a major international event and a vital contributor to the region's economy and tourism sector. The event opened with a minute of silence in solidarity with victims of recent railway accidents, attended by the King and Queen of Spain. Their presence, along with 70 institutional visits from global tourism leaders, highlighted FITUR's role as a strategic forum for international dialogue and cooperation. The fair's nine exhibition halls buzzed with activity, showcasing new products and strategies. The Knowledge Hub, a central feature, hosted over 200 sessions with more than 250 speakers. Specialised sections like FITUR 4all, FITUR Cruises, and FITUR Experience focused on accessible tourism, sustainable travel, and cultural intersections, respectively. With Mexico as the Partner Country, FITUR 2026 reinforced its global leadership in tourism participation and innovation. Plans are already underway for FITUR 2027, scheduled for 20 to 24 January, with Puerto Rico as the Partner Country. ```

US border policy changes threaten tourism economy

Representative Image: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA city skyline at dusk Proposed changes to the US Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) programme, requiring broader social media disclosures, could significantly impact the US Travel & Tourism sector, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The changes could result in a $15.7 billion reduction in visitor spending and the loss of 157,000 jobs. The WTTC's research, conducted with GSIQ and Oxford Economics, highlights that awareness of the proposed policy is already high, with 66% of surveyed travellers familiar with it. This awareness could quickly affect travel sentiment, with 34% of respondents stating they would be less likely to visit the US if the changes are implemented. Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, emphasised the potential economic consequences, stating, “Security at the US border is vital but the planned policy changes will damage job creation, which the US Administration values so much. Our research finds that over 150,000 jobs could be lost if this policy goes ahead.” The policy is perceived as more intrusive than those of other major destinations like the UK, Japan, and Canada, potentially placing the US at a competitive disadvantage. Under a high-impact scenario, the US could see 4.7 million fewer international arrivals in 2026, a 23.7% reduction from ESTA countries compared to a business-as-usual forecast. The WTTC urges US policymakers to reconsider the policy, highlighting Travel & Tourism as a critical economic driver. The sector's importance is underscored by its role in job creation and international connectivity, with one in three jobs globally linked to it. ```

Trade pushes for ‘Viksit Bharat’ alignment in 2026 Union Budget as tourism matures

As India prepares for the historic Sunday presentation of the 2026 Union Budget, the travel and hospitality trade is calling for a decisive shift from piecemeal relief to a holistic policy framework aligned with the ‘Viksit Bharat’ 2047 vision. Represented by apex bodies, industry leaders are urging Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to move beyond viewing tourism as a discretionary sector and instead recognise it as a strategic economic engine. From the long-sought prize of national infrastructure status to the rationalisation of outbound tax frameworks, the trade’s wishlist centers on structural reforms designed to unlock long-term credit, simplify regulatory bottlenecks, and cement India’s position as a globally competitive travel hub. Reduce the number of NoCs and clearances KB Kachru, President, Hotel Association of India (HAI) and Chairman – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group says: “For the upcoming Union Budget, Hotel Association of India (HAI), the national body for Indian hotels, urges policymakers to prioritise sector-specific reforms to drive growth and resilience in the hospitality sector. The hotel sector should be given due recognition for its significant contribution to GDP, jobs and foreign exchange earnings. The key policy interventions are according of infrastructure status and allowing of industry benefits to hotels. This will encourage investments in the sector and unleash the full potential of hotels to generate employment and play the desired role in realising India’s Vision of an Aatmanirbhar Viksit Bharat. There is a need to further improve the ease of doing business by reducing both- the number and the costs of approvals, NoCs and clearances required to build and operate hotels. A single window clearance mechanism is a provision that requires urgent attention. Re-instating the rewards scheme for FX earnings, higher rate of depreciation for hotels are recommended. Though not related to the budget, the sector also awaits pragmatic GST reforms.” Strategic budgetary support for destination marketing Louis D’Souza, Managing Partner, Tamarind Global adds: “As luxury and experiential travel from India continues to gain momentum, the Union Budget can play a pivotal role in shaping both outbound and inbound travel sentiment. On the outbound side, high-spending Indian travellers are increasingly investing in curated, design-led experiences, but policies around TCS and forex costs continue to influence booking timelines and destination choices. Easing these financial frictions would boost travel confidence and encourage travellers to upgrade experiences rather than compromise on quality. Equally important is the opportunity to strengthen India’s inbound tourism narrative. With global travellers seeking authentic, immersive journeys, India’s rich cultural heritage, wellness offerings, luxury hospitality, and emerging experiential circuits are uniquely positioned to attract high-value inbound travellers. Strategic budgetary support for destination marketing, infrastructure upgrades, simplified visa processes, and enhanced connectivity can significantly elevate India’s appeal as a premium travel destination. A forward-looking budget that balances international mobility with strong inbound promotion will not only drive foreign exchange earnings but also create employment across tourism ecosystems. By supporting innovation, storytelling, and seamless travel experiences, the Budget can position India as both a confident outbound market and a compelling inbound destination for discerning global travellers” Budget should help scale the ‘Heal in India’ initiative Ishaan Dodhiwala, Co-founder, Medijourn Solutions Private Limited says: “The medical tourism sector expects the Union Budget 2026–27 to respond to the growing global demand for India’s ‘Heal in India’ initiative, as international patients increasingly seek affordable, high quality and outcome driven healthcare. We expect the government to allocate a specific budget to promote ‘Heal in India’ initiative in the priority markets like Africa, middle east, SAARC and other emerging markets to promote medical tourism to India. Besides we expect specific measures to ease medical visa processes, support internationally accredited hospitals, and expand quality healthcare facilities into Tier II and Tier III cities. As demand for complex procedures and treatments such as cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics and fertility care continues to rise, expectations also include policies that attract foreign capital and strategic partnerships, along with rationalisation of import duties on advanced medical equipment and incentives for digital health and AI enabled diagnostics. Overall, the sector expects the Union Budget 2026–27 to scale the Heal in India initiative into a globally competitive medical value travel framework by combining affordability, clinical excellence and sustained global investment.” Help India build globally competitive travel brands Aviral Gupta, CEO at Zo World and Zostel, says: "As India prepares for Union Budget 2026, tourism must be recognised as a strategic economic engine rather than a discretionary sector. The next phase of growth will come from strengthening infrastructure in Tier 2 and Tier 3 destinations, improving last-mile connectivity, and supporting affordable, organised accommodation that enables longer stays and higher spending. Targeted incentives for experiential travel, skilling of local communities, and simplified regulatory frameworks for hospitality-led MSMEs can unlock significant employment while helping India build globally competitive travel brands rooted in local culture." Better route viability can help airlines add capacity Sandeep Arora, Director, Brightsun Travel, India adds: “With Indians travelling more often and more globally, this Union Budget can significantly improve the economics of travel for Indian consumers and businesses alike. Outbound travel from India has already crossed pre pandemic levels with over three crore Indians travelling abroad annually while inbound interest in India continues to rebuild steadily. The biggest wins can come from reducing friction through stronger support for air connectivity, smoother visa processes and more flexible bilateral air service frameworks, factors that directly shape both outbound demand and inbound arrivals. India has already expanded digital visa access to over 160 countries and strengthened regional connectivity, which shows that policy-led momentum is possible when processes are simplified. What the industry now needs is alignment. Better route viability can help airlines add capacity where demand is already visible while value led outbound travel means even small cost or process efficiencies can meaningfully impact booking decisions. Across leisure VFR and student travel segments, intent is strong but conversion still depends on affordability and ease. India is poised for a future ready travel ecosystem where existing gains in digital access and connectivity translate into faster conversions, higher volumes and more predictable growth across inbound and outbound travel.” Targeted travel incentives needed Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International for your editorial consideration says: “India’s travel and tourism ecosystem has benefited significantly from the Government’s progressive policy outlook towards global mobility and ease of travel. We hope the government maintains this positive outlook. In addition, continued policy support through the upcoming Union Budget - particularly through certain measures to increase the disposable income, as well as targeted travel incentives - would encourage people to spend more on both domestic and international travel, boosting the overall tourism industry. Furthermore, a review of the current foreign exchange limits and taxes on forex transactions would further support this momentum by easing cash-flow pressures for travellers and service providers. Together, such measures can unlock long-term economic value and contribute meaningfully to the vision of a Viksit Bharat." Budget should also support green and energy-efficient hotels through targeted incentives Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI). Adds: “Ahead of the Union Budget 2026–27, the hospitality sector is looking for practical policy support to sustain growth and strengthen tourism-led development. The decision to extend infrastructure status to hotels in 50 select tourist destinations is a welcome step, and the industry hopes this support is expanded across India to unlock its full potential. Granting infrastructure status to hotels nationwide will help unlock long-term, affordable financing, especially for projects in Tier II and Tier III destinations, heritage towns, and emerging tourist centres. Tax incentives for new hotels and higher depreciation rates can encourage fresh investments and timely up gradation of assets, improving overall service quality. The Budget should also support green and energy-efficient hotels through targeted incentives, helping the industry adopt sustainable practices while managing costs. Ease of doing business measures on simplifying approvals and licensing through single-window clearances, remains crucial. GST rationalisation will improve affordability and competitiveness. In addition, stronger marketing and promotion of Indian destinations , along with better last-mile and air connectivity , can help spread tourism more evenly and support inclusive economic growth across regions. Sector-friendly initiatives to strengthen the hospitality backbone Reema Diwan is Vice President - Design & Technical Services at Accor India & South Asia adds: “Our foremost expectation is the extension of infrastructure status to hotels and convention centres with investments above INR 10 crore. Hospitality projects are capital-intensive and long-gestation in nature, and access to long-term, low-cost finance is essential to enable capacity expansion, upgrades and the development of modern convention infrastructure, particularly in tier-II and tier-III cities. The Union Budget 2025-26 rightly acknowledged tourism as a key driver of employment-led economic growth, with a strong focus on infrastructure creation, skill development and travel facilitation, including the development of leading tourist destinations in partnership with states. As tourism demand continues to expand, the forthcoming Budget must build on this momentum through sector-friendly initiatives that strengthen the hospitality backbone across existing and emerging destinations. The impetus given to religious and medical tourism last year should now be scaled further to position India as a leading global tourism destination across diverse travel segments. Equally critical is GST rationalisation and the simplification of compliance and licensing frameworks. The current tax structure places a disproportionate burden on mid-scale and affordable hotels and restaurants. A predictable GST regime, including restoration of input tax credit, would reduce operating costs, improve cash flows, stimulate demand for moderately priced rooms and strengthen overall liquidity within the sector. A forward-looking Budget that sustains reform momentum will unlock investment, accelerate growth and strengthen India’s global competitiveness in hospitality, helping the travel and tourism sector move closer to contributing 10 per cent of GDP in line with global benchmarks.” Better roads, improved rail and air connectivity Elton Rodrigues, Director, HostMyTrips says: “As the Union Budget 2026 approaches, the travel and tourism sector looks forward to policies that can further strengthen domestic tourism in India. One of the key areas that needs attention is tourism infrastructure development. Better roads, improved rail and air connectivity, and enhanced facilities at tourist destinations can make travel easier and more affordable for Indian travellers. Another important expectation from the Budget is greater clarity on GST rules for hotel room tariffs, especially since pricing often fluctuates based on demand and seasonality. Clear and practical guidelines will help reduce confusion for both hotels and travel platforms, ensure fair taxation, and allow businesses to adopt flexible pricing without compliance challenges. With focused investments in infrastructure and simplified GST regulations, the government can create a more supportive environment for the tourism industry.” Grant ‘Industry Status’ to the tourism sector Vishal Suri, Managing Director & CEO, SOTC Travel Limited, says: “The Union Budget 2026 is a chance to strengthen India’s tourism foundations and accelerate growth. Our key recommendations are: GST Procedural Reforms: While GST 2.0 was a welcome and major reform, it had largely confined itself to rate rationalisation. It is now time to implement an option for Centralised Registration, seamless single returns and reporting across all states and procedural simplification to achieve a truly ‘Good and Simple Tax’ system. Flat 1% TCS: Replace the complex multi-tier structure with high tax rates (5%/20%) with a universal 1% rate. This ensures a clear audit trail of information to the tax department and enforcement authority, while avoiding needless cash/liquidity blockage at travellers’ end. Industry Status: Grant ‘Industry Status’ to the tourism sector to unlock its potential and facilitate growth.” Policy support for niche segments Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, adds: “As India’s Travel & Tourism sector continues to drive economic growth, the Union Budget 2026 presents a key opportunity to unlock its full potential. Granting industry status would provide access to affordable financing, lower interest rates, and institutional credit—particularly for MSMEs that form the backbone of the sector. Investments in infrastructure across under-served regions, spiritual destinations, and Tier II/III cities -combined with a single-window clearance system for hospitality projects— will serve to accelerate development. To strengthen inbound tourism, policy support for niche segments such as medical, sustainable, and MICE tourism with focus on incentives and skill development programs; review of visa policies (faster e-visa processing, expanded e-visa categories, targeted visa-on-arrival schemes), and enhanced allocation for global marketing campaigns like Incredible India will be critical. Continued government support for digital public infrastructure and potential incentives for adopting new technologies like Al and blockchain in the travel & financial services to further improve operational efficiency and elevate the traveller experience. The industry stands ready to partner with the government to make India a truly global tourism hub.” Need for modern, airport-style bus terminals Manish Rathi, Co-founder & CEO, IntrCity SmartBus and RailYatri says: "As we look toward the 2026 Union Budget, India’s intercity mobility ecosystem is at an inflection point. Over the past year, the industry has seen growing passenger preference for organised, reliable and experience-led bus travel - especially on medium and long-distance routes. While continued investment in highways remains critical, the next phase of growth must focus on passenger infrastructure and operational efficiency. Industry-wide, there is a strong consensus on the need for modern, airport-style bus terminals along key national corridors- integrated hubs designed with safe and controlled boarding zones, enhanced security measures, clean restrooms, and quality food facilities. Such infrastructure significantly improves passenger safety and overall travel experience, while also strengthening the viability of shared mobility as a reliable and credible alternative to private vehicles. With the right fiscal incentives and public-private collaboration, Budget 2026 can accelerate India’s transition to a more sustainable, organised and future-ready intercity mobility ecosystem." Seamless multimodal connectivity needed On railways he adds: "The railways have demonstrated strong execution momentum over the past year, with visible progress across safety upgrades, capacity enhancement, infrastructure modernisation and passenger-focused improvements. This reinforces confidence that large-scale transport investments can be delivered efficiently when backed by clear intent and sustained funding. As we look ahead to the 2026 Union Budget, the opportunity lies in building on this foundation by prioritising integration and experience. From an industry standpoint, the next phase of railway growth should focus on seamless multimodal connectivity - where trains, intercity buses and urban transit systems work together to enable predictable, end-to-end journeys for passengers. Continued emphasis on station modernisation, first- and last-mile connectivity, and digitally connected transport hubs will be critical in unlocking the full potential of rail travel." Need to rationalise the tax treatment across international spending instruments Gagan Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer, BookMyForex adds: “The government’s decision to raise the LRS TCS threshold to ₹10 lakh has meaningfully reduced the upfront tax burden on outbound remittances. However, there remains a need to rationalise the tax treatment across international spending instruments. Forex cards, which are purpose-built for overseas travel and offer transparent, pre-loaded exchange rates, continue to attract TCS beyond the threshold, while international credit card spends remain outside the TCS ambit. This creates an uneven playing field between instruments used for the same purpose and often nudges consumers towards opaque pricing structures with hidden markups. While TCS is adjustable at the time of filing returns, the upfront cash outflow continues to impact travellers’ liquidity. As outbound travel from India continues to grow, a harmonised and clearly defined TCS framework across international payment instruments would promote transparency, simplify compliance, and ensure fair treatment for Indian travellers”. Balanced tax rates on processed traditional foods On FMCG & F&B, Ishita Malpani, Managing Director, Amruta Tea adds: “"Ahead of Budget 2026, the food-tech industry is looking for GST simplification and more balanced tax rates on processed traditional foods to ease pressure on MSMEs and bring unorganised players into the formal economy. Increased spending on cold-chain infrastructure, along with steps to improve household purchasing power, can help drive demand across categories. In line with Atmanirbhar Bharat, targeted support for food-tech automation and smoother access to credit will be critical for enabling homegrown brands to scale and establish India as a global centre for preserved traditional foods." Continued investment in supply chain modernisation and logistics Sanket S, Founder at Scandalous Foods adds: "As the FMCG sector navigates a shifting consumption landscape, we look to the Union Budget 2026 to catalyse renewed demand across both urban and rural markets. Targeted fiscal support that enhances disposable incomes through tax reforms and clarity in GST implementation will be crucial for stimulating consumer spending and improving affordability. Continued investment in rural infrastructure, supply chain modernisation and logistics will not only expand market reach but also strengthen the backbone of India’s consumption story. Additionally, measures that reduce the compliance burden and foster ease of doing business will empower homegrown brands to innovate and scale. We are optimistic that the Union Budget 2026 will reinforce growth continuity, support sustainable consumption and unlock meaningful opportunities for the FMCG ecosystem" Clear and consistent guidelines around bundled services Vinod Kumar Sah, CTO and Co-founder at CoTrav, says: "With the Union imminent, organisations operating in the corporate travel/events space are eagerly awaiting a simpler system of GST Input Credits. At present, it often happens that GST payments made to hotels, transportation partners, and various other service providers tend to get withheld for a considerably long period of time due to certain bottlenecks in processes. There is also a need to acknowledge and support businesses that follow proper GST and TDS compliance, maintain transparent invoicing, and run audit-ready financial systems. These companies should be encouraged through process-level incentives instead of being burdened with additional complexity. Clear and consistent guidelines around bundled services and multi-vendor billing, which are core to corporate travel and events, would go a long way in reducing confusion and creating a smoother, more compliance-friendly environment for the sector." EV adoption and cleaner fuel technologies Manoj Soni, CEO, YoloBus and Easy Green Mobility says: “As India enters the next phase of economic growth, the Union Budget presents a critical opportunity to strengthen intercity public transport systems that millions of Indians depend on every day. Increased allocations towards road infrastructure, technology-enabled smart bus terminals, and a robust digital ticketing ecosystem can significantly enhance safety, efficiency, and the overall passenger experience in intercity bus travel. At the same time, policy support for EV adoption and cleaner fuel technologies in the intercity bus segment—through targeted incentives, charging infrastructure development, and improved access to financing—can accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility. Fleet modernisation powered by electric and low-emission buses will help operators reduce long-term operating costs while also lowering carbon emissions. A strong focus on green intercity transport will ensure affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible mobility for nearly 50 million passengers who rely on buses as their primary mode of intercity travel, while supporting India’s broader climate and net-zero commitments.” Simplifying licensing through single-window clearances Richa Adhia, Managing Director, Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts adds: “As India positions itself as a global tourism and hospitality hub, Budget 2026 presents an opportunity to unlock the sector’s next phase of growth. We are looking for clarity on GST rationalisation for hotels, particularly mid-scale and experiential properties, along with the granting of infrastructure status to enable access to long-term, lower-cost financing. Simplifying licensing through single-window clearances and faster project approvals will significantly improve ease of doing business. A continued focus on visa facilitation and destination development can further strengthen India’s journey towards becoming a $1 trillion tourism economy by 2047, while driving employment generation and foreign exchange across established and emerging destinations. A forward-looking Budget can firmly position hospitality as a key pillar of India’s economic and tourism-led growth story.” Heritage-sensitive development Amrita Gupta, Director of Manglam Group and CEO of Manglam Spa and Resorts adds: “The coming year presents an important opportunity for India’s hospitality sector to scale sustainably while deepening its contribution to tourism-led economic growth. Entering 2026, demand is being driven by experiential travel, destination weddings and wellness-led stays, creating the need for policy support that encourages long-term, quality-led investment. Reforms such as granting tourism industry status, rationalising GST and improving access to infrastructure and green financing can meaningfully strengthen the sector. For destinations like Jaipur, targeted budgetary support for tourism infrastructure, heritage-sensitive development and sustainable hospitality projects will help enhance global competitiveness while preserving cultural identity and driving inclusive growth.” Frameworks need to recognise cultural hospitality as a stable, employment-generating sector Vikas Narula, Co-Founder, Depot48 says: “From the perspective of a cultural venue, hospitality is not just about food and footfall, it is about sustaining spaces where music, communities, and local economies intersect. Venues like ours invest year-round in artists, technicians, service staff, and neighbourhood ecosystems, yet policy still treats us as episodic consumption rather than long-term urban infrastructure. Budget 2026 is an opportunity to recalibrate that lens by creating regulatory and financial frameworks that recognise cultural hospitality as a stable, employment-generating sector that needs predictability more than incentives. When taxation, licensing, and access to capital are designed for continuity rather than churn, venues can invest more confidently in people, programming, and safer, more inclusive public spaces that contribute directly to tourism and city life.” Rationalisation of GST rates Balaji M, CEO of Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa says: “As we approach the Union Budget, the hospitality sector is hopeful for measures that formally recognise hospitality and tourism as a priority sector, given its significant contribution to employment generation, infrastructure development, and economic growth. Large-format resorts and convention-led destinations like Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa play a vital role in driving business travel, MICE tourism, weddings, and leisure stays, particularly in destinations located close to major urban centres. One of the key expectations from the upcoming Budget is rationalisation of GST rates for hospitality services. A simplified and more uniform tax structure would help the sector remain competitive, boost demand, and encourage both domestic and international travellers. Granting industry status or priority sector recognition to hospitality would further enable easier access to financing, support long-term investments, and strengthen operational sustainability. Additionally, reintroducing or extending input tax credit benefits for hotels and convention properties could significantly ease cost pressures. Infrastructure development continues to be a crucial focus area. Sustained investment in road connectivity, airports, and last-mile transport will greatly benefit resort destinations on the outskirts of major cities, improving accessibility for corporate events and leisure travellers. Enhanced focus on convention and exhibition infrastructure would also support India’s growing ambition to position itself as a global MICE destination. Policy support for sustainability initiatives, including incentives for energy-efficient operations, water conservation, and waste management, would further encourage responsible growth across the sector. Finally, skilling and workforce development remain essential. Continued support for hospitality training and talent development will help address manpower challenges while elevating service standards. Overall, we remain optimistic that the forthcoming Budget will adopt a balanced approach, enabling the hospitality sector to grow sustainably while contributing meaningfully to India’s tourism and economic vision.” Insurance coverage for long- and short-term assisted living Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services, on behalf of Antara Senior Care adds: “We are seeing growing investor interest in senior-friendly healthcare and assisted living infrastructure, reflecting the recognition of India’s demographic shift and changing family structures. However, capital alone cannot build a holistic, integrated care ecosystem that is both scalable and sustainable. This momentum would be best supported if the Budget backed it with comprehensive policy provisions, particularly around insurance coverage for long- and short-term assisted living, and at-home care. This represents a critical affordability gap for seniors and their families, for a service that is increasingly becoming a wellbeing necessity. The second big unlock would come from announcements supporting large-scale training of non-medical care professionals in geriatrics, the establishment of standardised norms for assisted care, and formal recognition of caregiving as a skilled profession. As demand for senior care rises, India has a timely opportunity to move from informal, fragmented solutions to a regulated, high-quality care ecosystem that delivers dignity, safety, and continuity of care for seniors.” Improved forex policies and incentives for international travel-linked services Leena Jhugroo, Managing Director, Travel Lounge Leisure & Tours Ltd, adds: "As India’s outbound travel market matures, the Union Budget presents an opportunity to unlock sustained long-haul leisure growth. A key expectation from the industry is rationalisation of TCS on overseas tour packages and forex spends, which continues to impact travel affordability and decision-making for Indian consumers. While demand for experiential and premium travel remains strong, especially among honeymooners and high-net-worth travellers, cost sensitivities can delay or dilute travel plans. For island destinations like Mauritius, which are positioned around romance, luxury, wellness, and MICE, easing outbound travel costs would significantly boost bookings. Improved forex policies and incentives for international travel-linked services would further encourage longer stays and higher spends. With Indian travellers increasingly seeking bespoke, slow-travel experiences over short holidays, supportive policy measures can strengthen India’s position as a key source market for island economies and help destinations like Mauritius sustain year-round demand across leisure and corporate segments.” Industry status for tourism and hospitality Hari Ganapathy, Co‑Founder, Pickyourtrail adds: “As we head into Union Budget 2026, travel and tourism are at a genuine inflection point. Demand is clearly back, but infrastructure and connectivity will decide whether this growth compounds or plateaus. Aviation capacity is expanding rapidly, but that momentum needs to be matched with faster airport expansion, stronger regional connectivity, and smoother aviation infrastructure to unlock its full impact. Just as important is last-mile integration—connecting airports seamlessly with rail and road networks—because that’s where the real multiplier effect lies. Beyond connectivity, the industry needs structural support. Industry status for tourism and hospitality, easier access to long-term financing, and continued investment in destination development would go a long way in improving India’s global competitiveness as a travel market. Simplifying tax structures like GST and incentivising skill development are also critical, especially as domestic travel remains strong and international travel continues its gradual recovery. If Budget 2026 focuses on infrastructure, financing, and execution, it won’t just support growth—it will help build a more resilient, globally relevant travel ecosystem.” Policy alignment between Central and State authorities Jai Sreedhar, Joint Managing Director & CEO, Rosetta Hospitality says: “The hospitality and tourism sector remains one of India’s most labour-intensive and strategically important industries, with significant potential to drive employment, regional development, and foreign exchange earnings. As the sector continues to gain momentum across both domestic and international travel, there is a strong case for structural reforms in Budget 2026. Recent rationalisation within the GST framework has been a welcome step, but several challenges persist, particularly the denial of input-tax credit across certain GST rate bands, at a time when input costs continue to rise. Greater clarity and a more workable credit mechanism would materially improve operational efficiency and financial viability for hotels and resorts across the country. Another priority for the sector is the long-standing request for recognition as an industry or infrastructure category. Hospitality assets have inherently long gestation periods, and enabling banks and financial institutions to offer more customised, longer-tenor loan products would go a long way in bridging the demand-supply gap for quality tourism infrastructure. Policy alignment between Central and State authorities, streamlined approvals, and a more coordinated regulatory environment will further strengthen investor confidence and support sustainable expansion. We remain optimistic that Budget 2026 will build on the sector’s positive momentum and contribute meaningfully to India’s emergence as a premier global tourism destination.” In a follow up article, we will deliberate upon how many of these expectations are actually met by the Union Budget 2026!

Tourism Malaysia brings the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign to Cebu

Malaysian minister of tourism, arts, and culture Tiong King Sing brought the Visit Malaysia (VM) 2026 campaign to the Philippines by way of a luncheon at the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort on Wednesday, 28th January. The luncheon which revolved around the theme A Taste of Truly Asia is part of the Malaysian delegation’s participation at the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026. Tourism Malaysia hosted the luncheon as both a launch for the campaign in the country, as well as a means of attracting more visitors from the Philippines and the wider ASEAN sub-region. The luncheon also served as an exclusive opportunity for international buyers and media representatives to savour the authentic flavours of Malaysian cuisine. Cultural showcase The occasion also showcased Malaysia’s vibrant cultural heritage through featured activities like the live Nyonya beaded shoemaking demonstrations, Teh Tarik performances, and food sampling highlighting traditional specialities. These activities were staged alongside traditional Gambus performances which celebrate the richness of Malaysian culture and the diversity of its tourist destinations. The tourism board also has an ongoing Food and Culture Promotion till tomorrow, 30th January, also at the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort. The promo invites Cebu residents and locals from surrounding areas to have a taste of Malaysia’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and celebrated culinary delights.

Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism ties up with the Cambodia-California Chamber of Commerce

Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism announced a working partnership with the Cambodia-California Chamber of Commerce to promote the country’s tourism potential as well as investment opportunities in the United States. Tourism minister Huot Hak received Huot Kim Chha, honorary consul-general of Cambodia to the State of California and president of the Cambodia-California Chamber of Commerce on Monday, 26th January. The latter was accompanied by a delegation of more than 20 investors representing leading companies from the United States. The delegation met the minister at the ministry’s main office to discuss avenues for collaboration in the tourism sector, investment exploration, and proposed initiatives aimed at developing tourism products, improving the business environment, and facilitating effective investment in Cambodia. A great opportunity The California delegation made the most of the opportunity to exchange ideas on Cambodia’s tourism potential and investment prospects. Delegates highlighted the Kingdom’s strong safety and security measures, rapid economic and infrastructure development, and offered high-level recommendations to further enhance the tourism sector. Cambodia’s growing appeal as a safe and dynamic destination for international visitors and business investment was also raised during discussions. Hak likewise praised the Chamber for its confidence in the Royal Government of Cambodia’s leadership. He noted that the continued investments of Chamber members and the constructive initiatives presented during the meeting reflect the strong partnership between Cambodia and the US private sector. A briefing was also held regarding key immediate and medium-term measures undertaken by the Ministry to address current challenges and stimulate sustainable growth in tourism. Hak further underscored that the Cambodia-California Chamber of Commerce is regarded as an indispensable partner in advancing the country’s tourism and investment agenda.

ASEAN officials mull unified SEAsia visa at 2026 tourism forum

Officials from tourism boards and ministries of foreign affairs throughout Southeast Asia are contemplating the possibility of a unified regional visa. The topic is set to be raised during a high-level meeting to be convened at the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in the central Philippine province of Cebu which is currently ongoing till tomorrow, 30th January. According to Philippine tourism secretary Christina Frasco: “As part of the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP), there is a priority on seamless access and accessibility overall to the region, and therefore visa-free access and unified visas may be taken up as one of its key components.” Frasco added that all ASEAN member states are committed to position Southeast Asia as one unified destination. As of press time, however, specific target markets for the unified visa have yet to be decided.

ATM 2026 highlights sports tourism potential

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, set to take place from 4 to 7 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will spotlight the burgeoning field of sports tourism. New research by GSIQ, ATM's research partner, indicates that sports fans spend up to twice as much as regular travellers, presenting significant opportunities for destinations, hotels, and industry stakeholders. Sports tourism is poised for substantial growth, with GSIQ's report, "Sports Tourists: Travel with Passion," predicting a 63% increase in individuals planning sports-related trips in the coming years. This surge is expected to revitalise the Middle East's sports tourism sector, valued at approximately $600 billion (US$600 billion) by PricewaterhouseCoopers, with the global market anticipated to exceed $2 trillion (US$2 trillion) by 2030. Danielle Curtis, ATM's Exhibition Director for the Middle East, emphasised the importance of understanding sports tourism dynamics. "Destinations and tour operators can develop strategies to encourage repeat visits and attract new audiences," she stated. The study also highlights that whilst 36% of sports tourists require an attractive destination, 41% are open to extending their trips into longer leisure holidays. The ATM 2026 will feature a session titled "The Power of Sports Tourism: New Audiences, New Revenue," where GSIQ experts will discuss how destinations can convert this growing interest into substantial tourism revenue. Eva Stewart, Global Managing Partner at GSIQ, noted, "Sports tourism is no longer niche but a rapidly growing driver of global travel demand." The event will also explore the future of events in the region, focusing on creativity and interactive technology, with sessions like "The New Experience Economy: What Will Make Events Highly Attractive in 2030?" on the agenda. ```

GCC destinations lead global tourism growth in 2026

International travel demand is set to rise in early 2026, with Western Asia, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, showing significant growth in market share. According to Mabrian, a global travel intelligence firm, Jeddah and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, along with Doha in Qatar, are among the top 10 global destinations experiencing increased travel intent. Mabrian's analysis, which tracks international air capacity and flight search behaviour, reveals that Western Asia now captures 8.9% of total international travel demand. This marks a notable increase from the previous year, with the region showing the strongest upward trend worldwide. The GCC countries are also boosting international air capacity by 3.6% over the next six months, with key markets such as the UK, US, Germany, and Russia contributing to this growth. Carlos Cendra, Director of Marketing and Communications at Mabrian, highlighted the role of established hubs like Dubai and Doha, alongside emerging destinations, in attracting travellers from Europe, Asia, and North America. Despite recent unrest in Iran, travel intent towards Western Asia remains stable, demonstrating the resilience of the region's tourism sector. Asia continues to drive global travel demand, with Eastern and Southeast Asia accounting for 31.7% of international travel interest. Whilst traditional destinations in Southern Europe and North America see a slight decline, lesser-known regions are expanding their market share, driven by emerging markets and competitive value for money. This diversification in travel demand signals a shift towards exploring new and alternative destinations. ```

Mannai Holidays hosts webinar on Qatar tourism

Mannai Holidays, in collaboration with Red Dot Representations, recently conducted a webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade to highlight Qatar's diverse tourism offerings. The event showcased Qatar's appeal across leisure, luxury, culture, adventure, and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segments, emphasising its suitability for both leisure and business travellers. The webinar provided attendees with a comprehensive virtual tour of Qatar's modern infrastructure and authentic cultural experiences. It highlighted the country's expanding hotel inventory, state-of-the-art event venues, and well-connected travel infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for both individual travellers and large corporate groups. N.M. Shafiq, General Manager of Mannai Holidays, stated, "Qatar has increasingly seen world-class hospitality and travel infrastructure beautifully blending with cultural heritage preserved throughout the destination. With a range of offerings to explore, Qatar has it all for travellers of all ages, be it for business or leisure, and we at Mannai Holidays are committed to supporting Indian partners with strong on-ground expertise and seamless destination services." Prabhakar Kamat, Business Head at Red Dot Representations, added, "We at Red Dot Representations aim to give the travel trade sharp and relevant insights into Qatar’s tourism prowess to help them directly have strong sales conversations, and promote the destination across leisure, MICE and short-stay traveller profiles." India remains a significant source market for Qatar, and both organisations plan to develop more targeted trade engagement activities in the future. ```

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