Andorra Tourism Industry Opposes €10M Budget Cut for Fitur 2026

Andorra's tourism industry continues to rally against Concòrdia's proposal to cut nearly €10 million—around 35% of Andorra Turisme's budget—in the Consell General, emphasizing the value of the agency's participation in Fitur 2026.

Industry leaders highlight the fair's role in sustaining post-pandemic recovery, with strong results in 2023 and consolidation in 2024-25 stemming from sustained investments. Jordi París, president of the Unió Hotelera, told the Andorran News Agency the cut raises serious concerns, potentially harming long-term visibility and business networks. He noted Fitur, Europe's leading tourism event in Madrid with representatives from over 160 countries, as essential for showcasing Andorra's offerings to professionals and the public. This year's stand, under the "Eleva la teva experiència" banner, projected a premium image that generated significant professional interest despite the Principality's size.

París tied the event to Andorra's 2026 strategy: drawing higher-spending visitors, lengthening stays, and easing seasonality. Efforts have already boosted spring and autumn occupancy through joint initiatives by private firms, parishes, and new attractions. Nineteen Andorran companies joined Andorra Turisme, holding meetings focused on premium products like Andorra Selected, particularly with distant markets.

Pedro Moran, marketing and events director at Unnic leisure centre, described 15 quality meetings over two days as confirmation of Andorra's standing as a established country brand that enhances hotels and services. He praised the stand as the strongest in recent years and Andorra Turisme as vital for global access.

Grandvalira Resorts reported advances in Latin America, securing new clients and tour operator links from Colombia, Brazil, Puerto Rico, and Mexico—the guest nation this year. The fair also uncovered promise in the Dominican Republic, an unexpected market, while strengthening Iberian ties and reviving lapsed ones. The company views Fitur as a key global platform to highlight Andorra's tourism expertise and international profile.

París expressed regret over the absence of prior input from private stakeholders but affirmed the Unió Hotelera's willingness to meet any parliamentary group. Concòrdia insists the reallocation would bolster housing and innovation, areas that ultimately support tourism. Moran warned that reductions would undermine Andorra's brand in core markets like Spain and France, plus emerging high-value ones such as Brazil and Mexico.