Panaji: Goa Tourism on Monday reviewed a series of strategic initiatives, including a proposed partnership with global travel major TUI Group, plans for World Tourism Day 2026 celebrations, and the promotion of sports tourism, as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s position as a year-round tourism destination.
The initiatives were discussed at the 29th meeting of the Empowered Committee on Marketing and Public Relations under the Goa Tourism Board, chaired by Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte.
According to the Department of Tourism, the committee deliberated on measures to expand destination marketing, strengthen global partnerships, promote sports tourism, enhance digital engagement, and deepen stakeholder collaboration.
The committee also reviewed preparations for World Tourism Day 2026, which Goa plans to celebrate on a large scale under the UN Tourism theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), is planning month-long activities involving tourism stakeholders, industry partners, and local communities, with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, sustainability, and responsible tourism.
The committee also discussed proposals related to hosting marquee sporting events such as IRONMAN 70.3 Goa and Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT), which are expected to attract new visitor segments and further diversify the state’s tourism offerings.
Speaking after the meeting, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said Goa’s tourism strategy is centred on long-term, sustainable growth through strategic planning and partnerships.
“Our focus remains on creating a resilient, future-ready tourism ecosystem that keeps Goa competitive across global markets while showcasing the state’s diverse tourism offerings throughout the year,” he said.
The committee also discussed a proposed partnership with TUI Group to enhance Goa’s visibility in key European markets during the 2026-27 tourist season through destination marketing campaigns, trade engagement, and sustainable tourism promotion.
Tourism Director Kedar Naik said the discussions reflected the department’s focus on innovation, international partnerships, experiential tourism, and community participation to build a sustainable tourism ecosystem.
The meeting reaffirmed Goa Tourism’s commitment to collaborative planning and sustainable tourism development aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and strengthening the state’s global competitiveness, the department said.
