Another Successful Edition of Madrid’s FITUR Comes to a Close

The International Tourism Fair (FITUR), that opened in Madrid on Wednesday and attracted exhibitors from 170 nations, representing 13,190 companies and 845 non-commercial exhibitors, came to a close today with high expectations pinned on next the 2008 event.

“Once again, the World Tourism Organization is proud to be associated with this major national and international event that FITUR has become.” United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) secretary-general Francesco Frangialli said in his keynote speech at the opening ceremony on Wednesday.

A main focus in the UNWTO official’s address was last year’s tourism figures. “In 2005, it broke through the barrier of 800 million international arrivals. Last year, it surpassed the 840 million mark,” he said, adding, “This represents over 20 percent growth in the span of three years, equivalent to 150 million additional visitors.”

According to organizers, a large number of Latin American exhibitors attended this edition of FITUR to promote their continent as a special destination for Spaniards. Attendees had a chance to see Caribbean beaches, exotic Andean locations and historic capitals in Latin America stands.

Cuba could also be seen waving “Long Live Cuba,” which is the title for its latest tourism campaign. The move to showcase the country’s various tourism lures is part of Cuba’s efforts to streamline its tourism sector.

Buyers and sellers got to mingle and do business in the first three days of the fair, while and the remaining two days were opened to the public.