From January 22 to 26, 2025, the 45th edition of FITUR—the International Tourism Fair—took place in Madrid, offering a global platform for tourism industry stakeholders. Among the participants, the Ivorian delegation, led by the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure and composed of representatives from the OIPR as well as industry professionals, made a significant impact with a bold and strategic positioning.
A Strong Positioning to Showcase Ivorian Treasures
This year, Côte d’Ivoire adopted the theme “Ecotourism, Cultural Diversity, and Gastronomy.” This choice reflects the country’s commitment to highlighting its natural assets, exceptional cultural heritage, and emblematic culinary specialties such as attiéké, kédjénou, and alloco. The strategy is aimed at enhancing the destination’s appeal not only in the Spanish market but also globally, building on the positive outcomes recorded from the 2023 participation.
Ambitious Objectives and Concrete Actions
Côte d’Ivoire’s participation in FITUR 2025 revolves around several key objectives:
- Enhancing Attractiveness: By capitalizing on past experiences and consolidating its reputation, Côte d’Ivoire aims to attract new visitors and business partners.
- Boosting Tourist Flows: Establishing strategic partnerships with travel agencies and operators present at the event will stimulate exchanges and multiply business opportunities.
- Promoting Gastronomic Tourism: With the flagship project “Year of Gastronomy and Gastronomic Tourism” planned for 2025, the country aspires to position itself as a leader in culinary tourism in Africa.
An Impressive Booth and Strategic Meetings
The Ivorian presence was further strengthened by an aesthetically striking booth and a series of strategic meetings. Among these, the Tourism Investment Forum provided an opportunity to discuss key projects and future partnerships. Additionally, a workshop organized in Córdoba highlighted the sector’s potential, notably the natural parks, rich cultural heritage, and modern infrastructures that underpin Côte d’Ivoire’s appeal.
A Commitment to Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism
Under the leadership of Mr. Siandou Fofana, Minister of Tourism and Leisure, this edition of FITUR marks a decisive step in implementing a vision centered on sustainable, inclusive tourism that generates economic value. Alongside FITUR, the Ministry will also host, on Friday, January 24, 2025, a Forum on Tourism and Leisure Investments at the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services of Madrid. This event is designed to mobilize direct Spanish investments to implement key projects in Côte d’Ivoire’s tourism sector.
An Unmissable Destination on the Global Stage
With its notable participation in FITUR 2025, Côte d’Ivoire asserts itself as an unmissable destination. A land of flavors and discoveries, it captivates with its varied and innovative offerings, underpinned by a clear and ambitious strategy to capture new markets and strengthen international partnerships.
In summary, the commitment and dynamism of the Ivorian delegation signal a promising future for the country’s tourism sector, which continues to reinvent itself to meet the challenges of the global market.
