Argentina Creates Ministry of Tourism

Recognizing the importance of tourism, Argentina recently created its first Ministry of Tourism. The creation of the Ministry is part of the country’s move toward mainstreaming tourism as an industry that delivers economic growth, job creation and sustainable development.

Argentinean President, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner announced the move, which separated the Ministry of Tourism from the existing Ministry of Industry and Tourism. She also named Carlos Enrique Meyer, previously Secretary of State for Tourism, as Minister of Tourism.

“Tourism is well-positioned to be a major generator of revenue and is fundamental for the generation of employment in the country,” President Kirchner said. “This activity deserves its own portfolio, which will allow it to maintain and increase the growth we’ve seen since 2003.”

According to the UNWTO, Argentina received 4.3 million international tourist arrivals and $3.9 billion in tourism receipts in 2009 (export revenues).

For more information on Argentina and tourism, contact the Ministry at info@argentina.travel.