VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Tourism department has commenced the new year with renewed vigour at the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) 2026 in Madrid, Spain. FITUR Madrid 2026 brings together global tourism leaders, tour operators and media professionals. The Seychelles delegation is led by Minister for Tourism and Culture Amanda Bernstein, accompanied by special advisor Bernadette Willemin and supported on the ground by Tourism Seychelles representative Monica Gonzalez.
This international engagement matters significantly for Seychelles’ economic recovery and growth. Tourism remains the backbone of the Seychellois economy, providing employment and foreign exchange earnings. FITUR provides a strategic platform for destination marketing, trade engagement and partnership building. For ordinary Seychellois, a strong tourism sector means job security, business opportunities, and continued investment in infrastructure and services.
The event is one of the world’s leading tourism exhibitions. Seychelles’ participation once again signals its commitment to maintaining a strong international presence at the start of the year and reinforcing relationships in key source markets. Madrid’s position as the home of UN Tourism headquarters presents an important opportunity for the minister and delegation to re-engage with the new UN Tourism Secretary General, Shaikha Al Nowais, who assumed office on January 4, regarding Seychelles’ planned engagements for 2025.
Minister Bernstein stated that the platform allows Seychelles to strengthen existing relationships, explore new opportunities, and ensure Seychelles remains a competitive and high-value destination. Tourism Seychelles’ participation signals continued engagement with travel partners and international institutions. FITUR provides a strategic platform for destination marketing, trade engagement and partnership building at the beginning of the tourism calendar year.
The delegation will also establish bilateral meetings with member countries, particularly those from the African continent. The minister highlighted Seychelles’ continued commitment to maintaining strong international presence and reinforcing relationships in key source markets. Opportunities for collaboration include establishing new air routes, developing sustainable tourism products, and attracting investment in hospitality infrastructure.
The Madrid engagement marks the beginning of an active year of international tourism promotion for Seychelles.
