The 46th edition of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart 2023 took center stage in the vibrant city of New Delhi, India, thanks to the Ministry of Tourism. After a pandemic-induced pause, this event, hosted at the magnificent International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) within Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from October 4th to 6th, 2023, served as a global gathering for tourism professionals and business stakeholders.
Peter Semone, Chairman of PATA, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism for hosting this significant event, emphasizing its role in spotlighting unique destinations and facilitating networking, learning, and socializing among delegates worldwide. He also praised the “Travel for Life” initiative for its global potential.
Ms. V. Vidyavati, Secretary of Tourism, highlighted PATA Travel Mart’s catalytic role in the Asia Pacific region’s tourism landscape. She stressed the unifying power of tourism and mutual learning among PATA members, while aligning “Travel for Life” with the LiFE Mission for sustainable and harmonious development.
The ‘Travel for LiFE’ initiative, unveiled on World Tourism Day 2023, is part of the broader Mission LiFE, dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism. This sector-specific program actively promotes sustainable economic growth, responsible consumption and production practices, and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year’s event offers a diverse range of activities, including the prestigious PATA Gold Award, the PATA Youth Symposium, and the PATA Forum on Sustainability. It also remains a crucial platform for business-to-business (B2B) interactions.
India’s participation is comprehensive, with a dedicated pavilion showcasing its diverse destinations, from well-known to lesser-known gems. Multiple state governments and ministries, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi, Karnataka, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and the Handlooms Development Commissioner, actively participate in the event, introducing the global audience to thematic products and offerings spanning wellness, adventure, heritage, culinary experiences, and art and craft.
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is headquartered in Bangkok and globally renowned as a not-for-profit association committed to responsible travel and tourism development in the Asia Pacific region. The PATA Travel Mart serves as a cornerstone of international trade exhibitions within the tourism sector, fostering trade interactions between global buyers and sellers, particularly from the Asia Pacific region. It provides a unique opportunity for networking, learning, and collaboration on a global scale, with a focus on the dynamic Asia Pacific region.