In Turkey, with the normalization of the situation with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, group tourism has also intensified, including large-scale events such as wedding ceremonies, congresses, seminars.
From 18 to 22 November, the International MICE & Wedding Forum (IMWF) was held in Antalya, the “tourist capital” of Turkey, with the participation of about 100 representatives of travel agencies from 25 countries.
Within the framework of the forum, the tourism potential of Turkey was demonstrated and the goal was set to increase the share of the country’s group tourism in the world market next year.
Group tourism generates more income than individual tourism.
Turkey revenues from group tourism amount to $ 200 million
IMWF Managing Partner Nejip Fuat Ersoy told Anadolu agency about the impact of positive trends in tourism on public events.
Ersoy noted that during the forum held in Antalya, the participants got acquainted with Turkish culture, values and potential of Turkey in the field of alternative tourism.
According to him, the efforts of the IMWF are aimed at promoting the tourism sector of Turkey in the world.
“We’ve come a long way.”
Ersoy stressed that Turkey is one of the few countries with developed group tourism.
He noted that Turkey intends to increase its share in the global group tourism market, the volume of which is estimated at $ 1 trillion.
“At present, Turkey’s share in this segment of world tourism is $ 200 million. This is a very low figure. Since Turkey occupies a good position in the list of tourist countries, in particular in terms of the number of arriving foreigners. Turkey started developing group tourism 7 years ago. We have covered a significant path, but this is not enough, since we are aware of our potential, ”he stressed.
Turkey aims to increase its share in group tourism to $ 300 million, he added.
Ersoy also said that the IMWF is working with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Tourism Promotion and Development Agency and tour operators to develop new strategies aimed at the growth of group tourism.