The approval of the New General Tourism Law will strengthen and modernize this important sector of the national economy, the
In this regard, the ministry expressed its satisfaction with the final approval of the new General Tourism Law by the Congress of the Republic, following a second vote that received a broad majority of 87 votes in favor on Wednesday.
This regulation marks a turning point for the South American country's tourism development, updating a legal framework that had remained in force for more than 15 years.
"The new law represents a structural change in the way tourism is promoted in Peru. It is a modern, inclusive law with a forward-looking vision that responds to the true needs of the sector," Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Desilu Leon stated.
Sustainable and competitive development
The new General Tourism Law consolidates Mincetur's role as the governing body for national tourism policy. It is entrusted with the responsibility of formulating and updating the National Strategic Tourism Plan (Pentur), guiding its implementation at all levels of government and promoting an integrated vision of tourism development.
Among the main advances of the new legislation is the creation of Special Tourist Development Zones (ZEDT), priority areas to promote private investment, enhance tourism infrastructure, and raise regional competitiveness.
These zones will have differentiated tax benefits, such as preferential income tax rates for tourism activities that promote local employment, sustainability, and added value.
Strengthening the State's role
The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism also highlighted that this law strengthens the role of the Peruvian State as a promoter of investment.
Therefore, Mincetur will be able to coordinate and supervise tourism investment projects at the national level, articulating efforts with regional and local governments.
Additionally, the use of mechanisms such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), Works for Taxes, and asset-based projects is established, which will facilitate multisectoral interventions that contribute to reducing structural gaps.
Another key component of the regulation is the focus on the formalization of the sector.
The ambulatory sale of tourist services in public spaces is prohibited. Enforcement tools are strengthened, and clear sanctions are imposed on those who operate outside the law. This will raise the quality of the tourism offering and provide greater security for visitors, especially in segments such as adventure tourism.
Sustainable practices such as the circular economy, community tourism, and responsible environmental management are recognized and integrated as well.
The law promotes tourism as a cross-cutting activity that positively impacts job creation, economic growth, and local development.
For all these reasons, Mincetur thanks the Congress of the Republic, subnational governments, and the private sector for their active participation in the process of developing this new law, which is the result of a collective achievement.