Tourism News
Minister Highlights Tourism's Growing Role in State's Economic Development
Shri. P. A. Mohamed Riyas, Minister, Kerala Tourism, emphasized the growing importance of tourism in the state's economic development. While inaugurating the Academic Annex Block of the Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), he noted that tourism, currently accounting for 10 percent of Kerala’s GDP, has significant untapped potential. The sector, supported by innovative projects, is expected to contribute even more in the future.
Shri. Riyas highlighted that the global tourism industry represents nine percent of the world economy, with the World Tourism Organization predicting exponential growth, reaching 11.1 trillion tourists by 2024. He pointed to emerging trends like MICE, destination weddings, and experiential responsible tourism as key growth areas.
The new academic block at KITTS, will support the institute's development as a center of excellence in tourism education, equipping students with skills in digital marketing and tourism start-ups. The event was attended by prominent figures from the tourism sector and KITTS, with the block designed to enhance the institute's capacity to contribute to Kerala’s tourism industry.
