Brazil moves ahead with modernisation of General Tourism Law

04-09-24

Brazil's Chamber of Deputies has taken a significant step towards the modernisation of the tourism sector with the approval of Bill 1.829/2019, which updates the General Tourism Law. This legislative advance, which now awaits presidential approval, is the result of a joint effort between the Ministry of Tourism (MTur), parliamentarians and representatives of various tourism sectors.

The updating of the General Tourism Law, which dates back to 2008, has become essential to adapt to the new realities and challenges of the sector. The regulation includes important modifications, such as the use of resources from the National Civil Aviation Fund (FNAC) to finance airlines and support the production of renewable aviation fuels. These measures aim to ensure the operational sustainability of airlines in Brazil, as well as to promote a greener approach in the industry.

One of the most notable new developments is the incorporation of the Brazilian Tourist Map into the legislation. This instrument, previously regulated by ordinance, now becomes a key tool for resource allocation and action planning by MTur. By consolidating it into law, the regionalised and decentralised tourism management model is reinforced, prioritising the development of regions and municipalities with the greatest tourism potential.

The Minister of Tourism, Celso Sabino, welcomed the approval of the project, highlighting the importance of this consensus between different actors to strengthen tourism in Brazil. ‘We have achieved a convergence of ideas that will allow us to boost tourism significantly. This law reflects the needs and expectations of the various sectors involved in tourism,’ said Sabino, who played a crucial role in coordinating the negotiations.

In addition, the new legislation encourages civic tourism, promoting student visits to cultural, natural and scientific sites, in collaboration with the education system. This initiative will not only enrich the educational experience, but also encourage local tourism.

Another relevant point is the regularisation of the Autonomous Social Services as tourism providers, which will allow entities such as SESC to continue supporting social tourism through their agencies and accommodation. In addition, tour guides will now be able to use their own vehicles during their work, facilitating their work and improving the experience of tourists.

The approval of the project comes at a key moment, as it coincides with the delivery of the National Tourism Plan (NTP) 2024-2027, which was developed through a consultation process with the public and private sectors. The PNT aims to position Brazil as a leader in receiving visitors in South America, using tourism as an engine for sustainable development, and as a generator of employment and income.

The National Tourism Council (CNT), which since December 2023 has a new composition expanded to 93 members, has played a key role in updating the Law. This body, which seeks greater civil society participation in tourism planning, now includes representatives from emerging sectors such as LGBTQIA+ tourism, event promotion, and the National Confederation of Municipalities (CNM).

With these measures, Brazil is positioning itself to face the challenges of the future and strengthen its tourism industry, ensuring a more inclusive, sustainable development aligned with global trends.

This set of reforms not only responds to the current demands of the sector, but also lays the foundations for long-term growth, consolidating Brazil as an internationally competitive and attractive tourism destination. The sanctioning of this law by the Presidency of the Republic will be a crucial final step for its implementation, marking the beginning of a new era for tourism in the country.