Goa Tourism’s involvement at ITB Asia 2024 has proven highly successful, marked by strategic dialogues, notable visits, and extensive global networking. The Goa delegation, led by Mr Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism, alongside Mr Gavin Dias, General Manager, Marketing at GTDC, and Mr Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism, represented Goa at this prestigious travel trade event, reinforcing the state’s commitment to expanding its tourism reach.
The Goa Tourism Pavilion welcomed distinguished visitors, including Mr Sanyam Joshi, First Secretary Economic, and Mr Ashwani Kumar, Head of Chancery from the High Commission of India in Singapore. During their visit, the Goa Tourism delegation engaged with the dignitaries, providing insights into Goa’s diverse tourism offerings and emphasising key initiatives such as regenerative tourism, hinterland experiences, and MICE and wedding tourism.
Reflecting on the event, Mr Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism, commented, “Our participation at ITB Asia 2024 has been immensely productive, allowing us to present Goa’s unique tourism experiences and forge meaningful connections on a global scale. We are committed to advancing Goa’s tourism by focusing on innovative approaches like regenerative tourism that prioritise sustainable growth and the preservation of our cultural and natural assets. The visit of esteemed dignitaries from the High Commission of India reaffirms the importance of promoting Goa as a premier global destination and further solidifies our efforts to engage with international stakeholders.”
As part of its initiatives to drive Goa’s tourism growth, the delegation held a significant meeting with Mr GB Srithar, Head of Tourism Services at VFS Global. This strategic discussion focused on boosting connectivity and creating opportunities for Goa’s tourism sector. The meeting explored ways to strengthen Goa’s international presence, improve travel ease for international visitors, and position the state as a prominent destination in the Asian tourism market.
Goa Tourism also conducted government-to-government meetings with Mr Usubaliev, Director at the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, and Ms Nazgul Akzholova, Chief Specialist of the Department of Tourism of the Kyrgyz Republic. These discussions, led by Director of Tourism Mr Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Mr Gavin Dias, General Manager at GTDC, Mr Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism, and Mr Sheik Ismail, Senior Vice President of Concorde Exotic Voyages, explored potential collaborations to enhance tourism exchanges between Goa and the Kyrgyz Republic. The meetings concluded on a positive note, with promising opportunities for bilateral tourism initiatives. Additional discussions were held with senior representatives from IRCTC and Goa Tourism’s delegation partners, including Speedbird, One Calangute, and Concorde Exotic Voyages.
Mr Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, lauded the progress achieved during the event, stating, “ITB Asia 2024 has been an invaluable platform to showcase Goa’s commitment to responsible and regenerative tourism. Our interactions and discussions, such as the meeting with VFS Global, are aimed at creating a seamless travel experience for international visitors and fostering partnerships that will lead to long-term growth. Goa’s diverse tourism offerings and innovative initiatives will continue to set new benchmarks for the industry, and we are excited to see these collaborations come to fruition.”
