Estrella also referred to the challenges the country faces in terms of tourism infrastructure, highlighting that the government is already working on significant improvements that will allow it to offer a more competitive and higher quality experience for visitors. “We are driving a series of reforms that seek not only to increase the number of tourists, but also to ensure that their stay in Ecuador is memorable. The fiscal policies we have implemented are also designed to attract investment in the sector, thus generating sustainable economic growth,” said the Minister.

In this context of tourism expansion, the Minister stressed the need to strengthen the country brand so that Ecuador is recognized internationally not only for its iconic destinations such as the Galapagos Islands, but also for other lesser-known but equally attractive regions. Estrella emphasized the importance of diversifying the tourism offer, developing new ecotourism routes and promoting emerging destinations that offer authentic and high quality experiences.

The Minister also mentioned the advances in the digitalization of the Ecuadorian tourism sector, a key aspect to improve the country's competitiveness on the global stage. “Technological innovation is fundamental to modernize our services and offer a tourism experience up to international standards. Digitalization will enable more efficient management of the sector and improve the traveler's experience at every stage of their visit to Ecuador,” explained Estrella.

In the recent communication from the Tourism and Society Think Tank, through the president Antonio Santos del Valle, in addition to congratulating on the appointment, the relevance of Ecuador on the global tourism map was highlighted and offered the collaboration of the organization to contribute to the strengthening of the country's tourism industry.

“The Tourism and Society Think Tank is committed to developing sustainable strategies and promoting policies that drive tourism growth at all levels. Ecuador, with its extraordinary natural and cultural wealth, has a unique opportunity to consolidate itself as a leading destination worldwide. From our organization, we offer our collaboration to support the Ministry of Tourism in all initiatives that promote the development of the sector”.

Looking to the future, Minister Estrella reiterated his call for cooperation between the public and private sectors, which is essential to face the challenges ahead and consolidate Ecuador as a world-class tourist destination.