PANAJI
In a collaborative pitch ahead of the State Budget on March 6, the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) has urged the Goa government to balance aggressive tourism promotion with environmental protection, tax reforms and global marketing discipline.
The Association has sought a reduction in VAT on beer, wine and liquor distilled in Goa to 10 per cent, arguing that such a move will bring Goa in line with Mumbai and encourage procurement from within the State.
From a macro perspective, the TTAG flagged four immediate priorities -- safeguarding Goa’s ecology and heritage, introducing technology-driven transparency in transport pricing, strengthening safety and security, and improving cleanliness with better waste management systems.
“Goa’s natural assets are its strongest brand ambassadors. Protecting them must remain non-negotiable,” it said.
On the reduction in VAT, the TTAG explained to the government that many high-end weddings and conferences source premium liquor from other States where prices are lower, which results in revenue losses for the State exchequer.
On international promotions, the industry body recommended a more calibrated presence at global travel marts, suggesting participation at the World Travel Market London and the ITB Berlin every alternate year, along with selective presence at BTL Portugal and FITUR Spain on a rotational basis.
Annual participation was proposed at MITT Russia (September edition), ATM Dubai and ITB Asia. TTAG stressed that confirmations for these events should be made at least six months in advance to ensure structured appointments and measurable outcomes.
International roadshows, if organised, should be limited to CIS countries, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, the memorandum said.
On the domestic front, the association proposed focused participation in OTM Mumbai, SATTE Delhi, GITM Jaipur, TTF Kolkata and TTF Ahmedabad. It also recommended that roadshows be planned in collaboration with industry stakeholders in Tier II and Tier III cities that enjoy direct connectivity with Goa.
TTAG has reiterated its demand for a world-class convention centre and event venue in Goa, aligned with the Union Budget 2025 announcement allocating Rs 20,000 crore for developing 50 destinations across the country.
The association has also sought a single-window system through the Tourism Department for documentation related to weddings and tourism-linked events, stating it would ease compliance and enhance Goa’s competitiveness as a destination for large-format celebrations.
On sustainability, TTAG urged the State to back initiatives that reduce the environmental footprint of events. It recommended banning the use of flex banners, single-use plastics and thermocol at tourism-linked functions, noting that eco-conscious practices are increasingly influencing destination choices.
