- Region:
- America
- Category:
- Tourism
Colombia stands out at FIT 2024: A major boost to tourism as a driver of economic development
At the 2024 International Tourism Fair - FIT (Feria Internacional de Turismo), Colombia stands out with a prominent booth that highlights its growing importance as a tourist destination in Latin America and worldwide. The South American country continues to establish itself as a tourism powerhouse, and its presence at the fair is proof of that. With a booth full of culture, music, and stunning landscapes, Colombia aims to attract more tourists and strengthen its position in the global tourism market.
We spoke with Luis Fernando Fuentes Ibarra, Director of the ProColombia Commercial Office in Argentina, who shared his vision of tourism's role in the country's economic development: "I want to highlight something I really liked about yesterday's speeches, which is how tourism brings the world together. In Colombia, we work in a very organized way under a plan established by the National Development Plan, dictated by the national government. President Gustavo Petro has emphasized that tourism should be the 'smokestack-free industry' driving the country's economy, replacing fossil fuel extraction activities that can harm the environment."
Tourism has become a strategic sector for Colombia, and the figures prove it. In 2023, the country welcomed more than 6.1 million international tourists, representing a 25% growth compared to the previous year. For 2024, from January to July, Colombia experienced a 7.7% increase in tourist arrivals compared to the same period last year.
Fuentes Ibarra also highlighted the interest of Argentine tourists in Colombia as a destination: "The Argentine market showed a 5% growth in 2023 compared to 2022, and although there has been no additional growth in 2024, it remains stable. Additionally, the bookings for the end of the year and 2025 are promising, according to the businesses accompanying us at FIT 2024."
The presence of 26 Colombian companies at the fair, along with tourism departments and bureaus from various regions, underscores the country's commitment to continuing to promote its tourism and cultural diversity. "Last year, 20 companies attended, but this year we increased participation, reflecting the growing interest in Colombia as a top-tier destination," commented Fuentes Ibarra.
Tourism is now one of the key sectors for Colombia’s economy, and participating in events like FIT 2024 strengthens this strategy.
ABC Mundial highlighted the excellent work of ProColombia and their efforts to strengthen ties between Colombia and Argentina in tourism. "The images and music showcased at this booth are impressive. We congratulate the entire team for this great effort," said one of the journalists present, emphasizing Colombia's appeal as a tourist destination.
Finally, Fuentes Ibarra concluded with optimism: "We know it’s not easy, but the effort is worth it. Colombia is consolidating itself as one of the world's major tourist destinations, and we will continue working to ensure that tourism remains one of the country's main sources of income."
Colombia's presence at FIT 2024 not only highlights its rich tourism offerings but also its long-term vision to transform tourism into a sustainable development engine that benefits both its people and the environment.