The Ministry of Economics of the Republic of Latvia since the beginning of summer 2020 has been maintaining its proposal to invest nationally in the development of tourism infrastructure as part of the recovery strategy (within the recovery framework of the planned 100 mln euros). The export activities of tourism services, regardless of limited international space, are focused on the development of business and organised tourism - additional financing for attracting new foreign tourists following the Covid-19 crisis, providing support specifically for the development of business tourism - aid to tourism export companies, business ambassador programme, support to offline and hybrid-form conference and seminar organisation, and business tourism vouchers provides the basis for the “revival” of economic activity of the tourism ecosystem. Additionally, another new program for big international sports and culture events support has been launched and is currently being discussed among the institutions involved (Action 1).
Strengthening effective existing cluster programme launched during prior planning periods, by making additional financial contributions and extending the duration of the programme and adopting to administrative-territorial reform in Latvia, is a good sign for the tourism industry to survive existing conditions and ensuring unreality during the transitional period of support. The planned investment of 6.5 million is maintained and is directed as a sub-programme within the European Union's structural funds. Idea to develop a three-step approach to clustering (2 geographical - export targets, 1 thematic horizontal by main types of tourism (culture, nature, health, business tourism) (Action 2).
It is necessary to invest in tourism infrastructure - the creation of new tourism facilities unique to the scale of the Nordic or Baltic States, focusing on the regions of Latvia, improving tourism industry digitalization following the current trends in the tourism development worldwide. It will contribute to the development of more stable tourism in regional area, ensure the development of tourism exports and further satisfy local demand by challenging the competitiveness of the Latvian tourism products. The development of a MICE events management system will not only boost the awareness of Latvia (Riga and the regions) as a MICE destination but will also facilitate the cooperation between different MICE operators, like agencies, venues, hotels and DMO (Action 3).
