Throughout the new year, the Ministry of Business and Labour’s Catalan Tourist Board (CTB) plans to take part in some 40 international trade fairs. These include WTM London, ITB Berlin and ILTM in markets such as Singapore and São Paulo. In addition, the CTB will also be attending the two major events held in Spain and Catalonia: Fitur in Madrid and B-Travel in Barcelona.

The director of the CTB, Narcís Ferrer i Ferrer, stressed that the idea of taking part in tourism fairs and events for 2024 “serves to bring potential visitors closer to the characteristics of each of our tourism brands, as well as our differentiating elements, highlighting the transformation of the Catalan tourism model, which is committed to promoting more ethical, innovative and responsible tourism”. Ferrer added that “thanks to the worldwide network of promotion offices, we can be present in the main countries of origin and prospect in new markets”.

Through its presence at trade fairs, the CTB offers Catalan tourism companies and organisations the chance to work together to promote and market Catalonia abroad. For some years now, priority has been given to trade shows that can help consolidate strategic and potential markets and segments. In this respect, the 2024 trade fair calendar includes attendance at the most important shows, such as IMEX in Frankfurt and IBTM in Barcelona, as well as others specialising in cycling, hiking and wine tourism.

Under the CTB umbrella, companies and organisations participate in these fairs to position Catalonia as a leading and responsible tourist destination, “a modern destination that considers sustainability and respect for the territory and its inhabitants,” stated Ferrer. The recognition of Catalonia as a World Region of Gastronomy for 2025 and the America’s Cup are two of the projects that will feature prominently at this year’s tourism fairs, as proposals through which the CTB seeks to attract a more decentralised, diverse and deseasonalised tourism.

See the 2024 fair calendar here