India and Italy Partner to Boost Tourism and Cine-Tourism

Following the 2nd India-Italy Joint Working Group (JWG) on Tourism held on September 29, 2026, India and Italy have agreed to deepen bilateral tourism cooperation. Co-chaired by India's Tourism Secretary Bhuvnesh Kumar and Italy's Tourism Secretary-General Emanuela Tripi, the meeting brought together key representatives from both nations' tourism, foreign affairs, and culture ministries, as well as the Italian National Tourism Board (ENIT) and the Indian Association of Tour Operators. Discussions centered on exchanging tourism analytics, promoting lesser-known regional destinations, expanding cine-tourism, establishing destination twinning initiatives, enhancing skilling and capacity building, and driving stronger Business-to-Business (B2B) industry ties. As a primary outcome of the JWG, both nations agreed to establish technical working groups and dedicated points of contact to maintain momentum and operationalize joint projects. The meeting also laid the foundation for the proposed India-Italy Year of Culture and Tourism 2027, designed to spark greater cultural exchanges and boost mutual travel volumes. By formalizing institutional linkages, expanding tourism skill development, and fostering closer commercial partnerships, the cooperative framework seeks to unlock new market opportunities for travel operators, hospitality businesses, and cultural platforms across both countries.