New series of B2B meetings for better positioning of Bosnia and Herzegovina in tourism-source markets
USAID Turizam, in partnership with the BiH Foreign Trade Chamber, the Republika Srpska Tourism Association, the Turkish Travel Agencies Association (TURSAB), and the Turkish Airlines company, represented the BiH tourism sector at the Istanbul Roadshow from 10 to 12 October in an effort to develop and expand the network of travel sales agents.
During a series of B2B meetings, representatives of the tourism sector of Bosnia and Herzegovina had the opportunity to present a unique offer to travel agencies based in Turkiye. In addition, the roadshow enabled individual presentations of Bosnia and Herzegovina as one of the most exciting and dynamic destinations throughout the year. The presentation was held by members of the USAID Turizam project: Chief of Party Ibrahim Osta, Tourism Marketing Specialist Jusuf Jamakosmanović, Tourism Visitor Experiences and Marketing Specialist Ruba Velagić.
Photo Credit: TURSAB
Why is participation in the Istanbul roadshow important for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Historically, Turkiye represents one of the most important source markets for Bosnia and Herzegovina due to historical ties, visa free regime for Turkish citizens, and multiple daily flights by Turkish carriers to the country. However, in the past decade BiH attracted only a small segment of travelers, with below average length of stay. In 2019, a total of 71,059 Turkish citizens visited BiH with an average length of stay of 1,5 nights. In 2019, a total of 71,059 Turkish citizens visited BiH with an average length of stay of 1,5 nights. To return the demand from Turkiye on a growing path, participation in the roadshow through the promotion of new itineraries and tourism products, and B2B meetings is a great way to develop and expand the existing market network.
To achieve this objective, it is essential to engage the local market more actively by developing particular strategies in conjunction with the demands of travel agents and tailored to the profile of Turkish tourists. This will allow for enhanced tourism services and product diversification in the coming years.
USAID Turizam is identifying ways to improve local capacities, improve quality, enrich the tourist offerings with innovative tourism products, increase interest in the tourism sector and the destination appeal. This necessitates enhanced support for the private sector in driving the expansion of the tourism industry, including promoting Bosnia and Herzegovina as one of the most vibrant and appealing international destinations.
Photo Credit: TURSAB
Photo Credit: TURSAB
