The tourism sector is “moderately optimistic”, expecting Spain to receive 62 million tourists this year and anticipating that the recovery will take place from the second half of the year, after two very tough years, with sharp drops in activity, which on average They are around 70% in the past year and close to 50% in 2021, according to a study prepared jointly by the Table and the National Observatory of Outbound Tourism, ObservaTUR.

In addition, it demands that while the restrictions and control measures on mobility persist, aid to companies in the sector such as ERTEs be maintained, in addition to requesting the review of ICO funds and a reduction in VAT.

The first measure proposed by the members of the Table to contribute to the reactivation is the requirement to have a single control framework, with common guidelines and standardized requirements. The second most frequently reiterated idea is the need to carry out a major promotion and communication campaign. This action should convey confidence and influence with messages that reinforce that Spain is a reliable and safe country.

Another of the proposals formulated by the components of the Table for the new times is expressly addressed to the Government and the responsible administrations. And it is the need for the sector to be able to participate more actively in the design of the future of tourism and travel.

The members of the Tourism Board also believe that the Next Generation funds can be a great opportunity for the sector. “That is the general feeling among the members. Moreover, for some of them, it is a “huge and unique” occasion and the real “catalyst” for change. Especially if these funds are “transversal”, they are directed towards “locomotive” sectors and really serve the transformation,” says the study.

Barcelona is one of the Spanish cities that receives the most visitors per year. Photo: Pixabay.