Charting New Paths in Russian Tourism: Progress and Playful Plans

Original Source: government.ru

Dmitry Chernyshenko recently chaired a rousing session of the Government Commission on Tourism Development in Russia, where he shared the exciting progress of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality Industry.” Joined by notable figures like Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, they discussed how the project aims to make vacations not just fun but affordable too, aiming for growth in tourism’s contribution to the GDP by 2030.

The meeting outlined some serious goals: increasing domestic tourist trips to 140 million by 2030 (from 84 million in 2023), and tripling the export of tourist services to a whopping $10.8 billion. Dmitry waxed poetic about the positive trajectory, showcasing a 90% leap in domestic trips since 2020, proving that Russians are trading their winter blues for tourist shoes!

Under the project, Russia is waving goodbye to VAT for hotel services until 2027, making stays as sweet as a marshmallow atop a hot cocoa. Reshetnikov added that this project originally served as a life raft during the pandemic, preventing the tourism sector from sinking into oblivion. Thanks to those sweet subsidies and low-interest loans for new hotels, the tourism scene is on a hot streak!

With investment reports indicating a jaw-dropping 60% boost in the first half of 2024, it appears the tourism industry is not just back—it’s firing on all cylinders! The Minister emphasized that the focus will shift toward more family-friendly accommodations, advocating for at least 5% of rooms dedicated to families with kids in hotels benefiting from upcoming programs.

Looking ahead, a contest for innovative modular hotels will kick off in December 2024 with a cool 15 billion rubles earmarked for those game-changing ideas. Local regions will get a spotlight, especially new ones, and they’re rolling out the red carpet for tourism projects near national parks and scenic routes.

To cap things off, the Minister encouraged regional leaders to jump on the tax break train, urging them to introduce local incentives for the hospitality sector. With five exciting federal projects ready to roll out, the new national project is set to give domestic tourism the turbo boost it needs! Now, if only organizing a vacation was as easy as packing a suitcase!

The article provides insights into the advancements in the Russian tourism sector under the national project “Tourism and Hospitality Industry.” It highlights the government’s initiatives to improve domestic travel with affordable pricing and a growing infrastructure aimed at enriching tourist experiences. By 2030, the projects seek to significantly increase tourism’s contribution to the GDP and the number of domestic trips, while eliminating certain taxes to foster growth in the hospitality industry.

In conclusion, Russia’s tourism industry is seeing a renaissance fueled by strategic national projects, tax breaks, and safety measures aimed at enhancing domestic travel. With ambitious goals set for 2030, including increased trips and GDP contributions from tourism, the sector appears to be thriving. By focusing on family-friendly options and new innovations, it’s safe to say the future looks bright for Russian travelers—let’s pack those bags!