ANATO's Executive President, Paula Cortés Calle, has emphasized the importance of this gathering for the revival and growth of tourism in the region. "We are witnessing a positive trend that could surpass the 8.5% growth recorded in 2024," said Cortés Calle, referring to the 9.2% increase in international flight bookings for the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year.
One of the key highlights of this edition is the diversity of exhibitors and the vast array of business opportunities that will be available. With the participation of over 1,200 exhibitors and co-exhibitors, attendees will be able to explore a wide range of tourism-related products and services, establishing direct connections with key decision-makers in the travel industry. Additionally, it is estimated that around 16,000 effective business meetings will be facilitated through pre-scheduled appointments, fostering negotiations and strategic alliances.
The fair will also offer spaces dedicated to professional training and industry updates. ANATO Capacita Tech will be one of the featured initiatives, focusing on topics such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, emerging technologies, and digital transformation in tourism. These sessions aim to equip professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to adapt to current and future market trends.
Air and ground connectivity will be another central topic on the event’s agenda. Strengthening international routes has been key to the increase in leisure tourism, which now accounts for 76% of current bookings. Additionally, 55% of booked flights are direct routes between the departure and destination cities, reflecting improved accessibility and convenience for travelers.
Destinations such as Medellín and Bogotá have experienced significant growth in popularity. Medellín has seen a 30% increase in bookings, while Bogotá accounts for 55% of the country's total reservations. This growing interest is attributed to effective promotion of their tourist attractions, as well as improvements in infrastructure and security.
To facilitate the participation of national and international professionals, ANATO has implemented an efficient registration process. Until February 19, tourism professionals can register for free and obtain their event badge through the official ANATO Tourism Showcase website. International visitors also have the option to register online or in person, with a fee of $70 per person.
The ANATO Tourism Showcase 2025 will not only serve as a platform for the promotion and commercialization of destinations and services but will also be a forum for discussing the current challenges facing the sector. Topics such as sustainability, technological innovation, and adaptation to new market demands will be addressed in various conferences and panels, providing attendees with a comprehensive view of industry trends and prospects.