The figures represent a 12% growth over the previous year
WTM Latin America’s 7th edition, which was held between April 2nd and April 4th, at Expo Center Norte in the city of São Paulo, was a success. The event registered growth on every front. From exhibitors to visitors and also in relation to the participation on the part of the buyers and conference speakers, the exhibition energized the market and posted a 12% increase in the number of entrants by comparison with the 2018 edition.
With 600 exhibiting companies of 50 nationalities represented in the pavilion, this year’s event received a total of 19,432 participants. Out of this number, 11,683 are unique professionals, among visitors and exhibitors, representing a growth of 14.5% over last year. The audited figures are due to be released at the end of May.
According to WTM Latin America’s director, Luciane Leite, the indexes reaffirm the process of growth and representativeness that the tourism sector has exhibited in both the Brazilian as well as the global world economy. “The tourism industry is truly spectacular. It accounts for 1 out of every 10 jobs in the world and the estimate for this year is that it will grow by 4% in relation to global activity, according to figures from the World Tourism Organization. WTM Latin America is a positive indicator and only goes to corroborate this expectation”, emphasizes the executive.
Other indicators
In 2019 the Tour Operators Area grew from 26 to 43 exhibiting stands, which translates into a 65% increase over the previous year. Out of this total, 34 slots were occupied by tour operators, 6 by cruise lines and 3 by insurance companies.
The “Agent on the Road” program also exhibits a positive trend. Participation by professionals was up 7.1% in relation to the 2018 edition. In all, 750 agents were selected for the program, which just in the Tour Operators Area generated roughly 2,250 networking and business meetings.
“We are very pleased with the show’s results. On the whole the feedback that we’ve had from exhibitors, visitors, speakers, buyers and professionals has been very positive. This 7th edition is a milestone in terms of WTM Latin America and reinforces our importance in the market as an event that generates business and great opportunities for the entire chain. There are new features coming for 2020”, concludes Luciane.
The 8th edition has already been confirmed and will be held between March 31st and April 2nd, 2020, at Expo Center Norte, in the city of São Paulo.
For those who interested in exhibiting at WTM Latin America 2020, the form found in this link should be filled out, while for those professionals who are interested in visiting, it is necessary to fill out the form found in this link.