The increase in the arrival of American visitors and investors to Brazil was the subject of a meeting in Brasília between the Minister of Tourism, Vinicius Lummertz, and the counselor of the U.S. Embassy, William Popp. The agenda included topics such as the increase in air connectivity and the concession of natural parks to the private sector, measures that facilitate the flow of travelers and tend to increase interest in national attractions.
The minister highlighted that actions such as the opening of airlines to foreign capital, currently under consideration in the National Congress, will enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure and suggested U.S. participation in exploring activities in environmental conservation units. “We need to open up to attract investors, with measures such as the open skies agreement. We are committed to ensuring legal security and creating better conditions to bring investments to Brazil,” he emphasized.
Lummertz reminded that the Legislative is analyzing other changes aimed at developing tourism, such as the modernization of Embratur and the update of the General Tourism Law. The minister added that MTur is working to expand visa facilitation for Indians and Chinese in order to attract more tourists. The e-Visa system is already operational for citizens of the United States, Australia, Canada, and Japan.
Counselor William Popp assessed that the simplification of entry authorizations into the country is essential to reinforce the attraction of foreigners. “Americans are more willing to go where it is easier. And also to where there are direct flights,” he noted. Lummertz informed that MTur will pass on information to the U.S. about the concession of national parks. “We count on the participation of global actors, and American know-how is especially welcome in this process,” pointed out the minister.
The environmental conservation unit of Pau Brasil (BA) has just had tourism support services granted to the private sector, and six other natural areas are also expected to have bids launched soon by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation.
Also participating in the meeting were the head of the Special Advisory for International Relations of MTur, Rafael Luisi; the commercial counselor of the U.S. Embassy, Camile Richardson; and the head of the Consular Section of the Embassy, Antonia Cassarino-Gonçalves.
Source: www.turismo.gov.br