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Lukashenko sets goal to double tourism revenue in five years

MINSK, 18 December (BelTA) - In his Address to the Belarusian people and Parliament, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko set the objective of at least doubling tourism’s contribution to the national economy within the next five-year period, BelTA has learned.

The head of state identified tourism as one of the key drivers for economic growth. “The importance of creating a strong brand for Belarusian tourism, I believe, does not need explanation. Just as it is clear that this sector can become a powerful tool for promoting Belarus’ image as an open and hospitable country,” said Aleksandr Lukashenko. “The goal for the upcoming five years is to increase tourism’s contribution to the economy at least twofold.”

Everything for that is in place, the president said. He emphasized that every corner of Belarus has its own character and distinct identity. Minsk is a unique, world-class capital. Brest Oblast is not only home to the legendary Brest Hero Fortress and the ancient Belovezhskaya Pushcha but also the soul of the Belarusian Polesie. Vitebsk is the country’s cultural and festival hub. Gomel Oblast attracts tourists with its palace-park ensembles and unique folk culture. The Mogilev land boasts healing springs and unique local history museums, while Grodno Oblast is a land of castle architecture.

However, tourists have complaints about the lack of service along the entire chain and digital support: booking accommodation, buying tickets, finding routes, and ordering excursions. “The absence of such convenience means losing a potential visitor. All decisions in the sector based on government proposals have been made. Begin developing a full-fledged domestic tourism platform,” the president said.

Specific instructions from the head of state were given to leaders of the local vertical. “Amid booming demand, we should have expanded sanatoriums and built new hotels in key towns yesterday. Governors are passive spectators. If you can’t act, partner with the private sector,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

“You need to promote tourism services more actively through our embassies, dealership centers, and even more aggressive advertising. Task our ambassadors with this work. They are not exactly overburdened yet,” the president added.

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