FITUR focus on technology

Ana Larrañaga, Director of FITUR speaks with TravTalk about this year’s staging of FITUR, to be held from January 17-21, 2018, at Feria de Madrid, Spain.

TT BUREAU

Could you give us a brief summary of the highlights of this year’s FITUR?
Three working lines will be especially promoted this year. Among them is FITUR’s internationalisation with a greater presence of countries, official representations and companies, as well as India’s leading role as FITUR partner. Another highlight is to be found in the topics of sustainability and technological innovation. In this context, another major novelty will be the presentation of a series of prototypes based on 5G technology which will offer exhibitors and visitors valuable information on applications that will change the way tourism is experienced. Another novelty will be the FITUR Festivals’ monographic section devoted to music events.

Who are the key participants from the Middle East at FITUR this year?
The Middle East presence grew by 6 per cent at FITUR 2017 and accounts for 10 per cent of international representation at the trade fair. Beyond these figures, the Middle East’s participation has always been very important, particularly with regard to the countries of the Mediterranean Basin.

What are the main objectives of this year’s event?
Providing the industry with the best platform for trade meetings and business, we work to bring together the broadest representation and participation of the international tourism industry.

Could you share this year’s key areas?
We will feature activities on January 16, a day prior to the opening, with Exceltur Forum and the Latin American Conference for Tourism Ministers and Businessmen, CIMET. Moreover, FITUR will host different activities organised by the UNWTO, Investur Africa and Casa Asia as well as sessions and presentations by various business associations and tour operators, carriers, technology companies, etc., among many others.