The president of CEOE International and president of the Tourism, Culture and Sports Council of CEOE, Marta Blanco, has participated in the International Cruise Summit International Cruise Summit 2019 held in Madrid.
Various industry experts have addressed numerous issues of relevance to the sector, such as industry transformation or customer experience among others.
In his speech, Marta Blanco analyzed the main challenges facing the cruise industry, among which is the impact generated in regional and local economies. In this line, he referred first to the great sector contribution to the global economy, both directly and indirectly, as well as derived economic benefits and their contribution to the generation of employment, income and welfare.
Next, the president of CEOE International also pointed out the tourist overcrowding. He pointed out that the problem should not be addressed by sectors since the mass arrival of tourists is a problem that destinations have to face regardless of the means of transport. In this sense, it would be advisable to make a diagnosis first, establish a dialogue between the authorities (national, regional and local) and the private sector, and implement strategies to avoid overcrowding taking advantage of new technologies. He stressed, therefore, that public-private dialogue is key, and the common strategies necessary to overcome or avoid adverse situations.
Finally, regarding the environmental challenge, Marta Blanco stressed that each industry must make efforts to transmit its commitments to respond to this challenge, and that in the case of the cruise industry, investment in new energy and fuels should be highlighted. Clean to reduce carbon emissions, among many other measures. He also noted that governments must take into account the demand of the industry for a gradual and technologically neutral transition, and emphasized giving a public-private cooperative approach to the challenges posed by the implementation of environmental policies, climate change and trade, investment and innovation, employment and transition.