Andina

Peru's Min: Tourism sector lost US$600 million due to social conflicts

Photo: ANDINA/PromPeru

Photo: ANDINA/PromPeru

10:05 | Arequipa (Arequipa region), Feb. 17.

Economic losses in the tourism sector due to social conflicts in various parts of Peru amount to US$600 million, Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Luis Fernando Helguero has reported.

The high-ranking official said one of the sectors most affected by protests is tourism —a segment in which they have begun to apply some strategies to recover from the losses.

Among the actions to be implemented, he announced that in a few days the Holy Week domestic tourism campaign will be launched. Thus, strategic alliances will be established with airline companies to reduce the cost of tickets by up to US$30.

The Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry's head highlighted the 
recent reopening of Machu Picchu —a measure that will have a positive impact on tourism.

Regarding the social conflict that the country is experiencing, Minister Helguero asserted that the Executive Branch maintains its stance on the advancement of elections.

Similarly, the Cabinet member pointed out that, unlike in December, dialogue with interlocutors from some sectors is currently being maintained.

Remarks were made during his visit to the Peruvian city of Arequipa on Thursday to coordinate actions aimed at boosting tourism and exports in the southern region.

Minister Helguero arrived in the southern metropolis to meet with representatives of tourism guilds, as well as with authorities, and listen to their demands.

(END) RMC/JOT/MVB

Published: 2/17/2023