The Croatian Tourist Board is actively participating in the IBTM World congress fair held in Barcelona from November 28 to 30. This event stands out as one of the most significant trade fairs in Europe and worldwide, serving as a platform where the Croatian Tourist Board consistently showcases Croatia's conference and incentive offerings.
"IBTM represents a central meeting point for international supply and demand in MICE tourism, making it crucial to promote Croatia in such a prestigious setting. Our country has robust foundations for further developing MICE tourism, contributing to Croatia's status as a year-round destination. The high satisfaction levels of the business clientele, along with the increasing organization of business events across Croatia, demonstrate our effective utilization of the potentials of MICE tourism," stated Kristjan Staničić, Director of the Croatian Tourist Board.
He added that in 2023, there has been a notable recovery in the business travel industry, with Croatia ranking 33rd in the world, according to the International Congress and Convention Association.
The first day of the fair witnessed a significant number of inquiries and interest in Croatia as an ideal and safe destination for hosting congress events. The highest interest came from partners organizing smaller to medium-sized business gatherings, particularly incentive trips.
Regarding Croatian destinations, the most significant interest was expressed for locations associated with Croatian airports with the highest number of international flight routes in the pre and post seasons. While Zagreb is an appealing option for professional conferences, partners are increasingly inquiring about Split or Hvar as incentive destinations, and Dubrovnik, as Croatia's most renowned destination, draws interest for all types of business meetings.
In addition to the Croatian Tourist Board, 19 domestic co-exhibitors, including the tourist boards of cities such as Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Šibenik, and Opatija, as well as various hotel companies and travel agencies, are participating in the fair. This marks a record level of interest from Croatian co-exhibitors for IBTM this year.
Apart from individual meetings with domestic and international partners and special destination presentations for various buyer groups, the Croatian booth, in collaboration with the Croatian Chamber of Economy, offers a tasting of premium local wines and authentic gastronomic specialties.