The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has confirmed its participation in the prestigious World Travel Market (WTM) after a two-year hiatus. The event will be held in London, UK, from November 5 to 7, 2024. WTM is considered a key platform for promoting tourism, and Nepal’s presence at this event is expected to boost awareness of its attractive tourist destinations and provide new opportunities for the industry.
The newly appointed CEO of NTB, Deepak Raj Joshi, had pledged to ensure NTB’s participation in major international tourism fairs such as WTM and ITB (International Tourism Berlin) soon after assuming his role. In line with this commitment, NTB has decided to actively participate in WTM to promote Nepal’s tourism sector globally. “By participating in WTM, we are opening doors for Nepal’s tourism promotion at the international level. NTB will continue to maintain an impactful presence in international events like fairs and sales missions,” stated Joshi.
Due to various reasons, NTB has been unable to participate in international fairs like WTM and ITB over the past two years. However, since its establishment, NTB has been a consistent participant in global tourism fairs. WTM held annually in November, is considered the second-largest tourism fair in the world, while ITB Berlin, held every March, is regarded as the largest tourism fair globally.
NTB has also issued a public notice inviting interested companies to join the Nepal delegation at WTM. The board plans to include at least 30 companies in the event. Nepal has been participating in WTM for the last 40 years, initially through the Department of Tourism before NTB’s establishment 25 years ago. The event is expected to provide networking opportunities and explore new business possibilities.
NTB was established under the Nepal Tourism Board Act of 1996, with a primary mandate to promote Nepal as a top tourist destination globally. “The board was founded to develop, expand, and promote tourism in Nepal by establishing the country as an attractive tourist destination internationally,” the Act states.
Operating under a public-private partnership model, NTB allocates nearly 70% of its annual budget of around NPR 2 billion to international marketing efforts. However, due to the lack of approval for the 2021 International Program and Procurement Procedures, NTB could not participate in any international fairs during the 2023/24 fiscal year.
At this year’s WTM, NTB will set up stalls showcasing Nepal’s identity and promoting its tourism, highlighting the country’s diverse offerings to the global market.
