Spain's 2030 sustainable tourism strategy aims for long-term growth and global leadership

Press release and source: Ministerio de Industria y Turismo

The Spanish government, through the Secretariat of State for Tourism, is developing the Sustainable Tourism Strategy for 2030 to address the medium and long-term challenges facing the tourism sector. 

The strategy focuses on socio-economic, environmental and territorial sustainability and aims to secure Spain's position as a world leader in tourism.

Strategy 2030 aims to transform Spain's tourism industry into one characterised by sustainable growth. The government plans to increase the industry's competitiveness, emphasise natural and cultural values, and ensure that the benefits and burdens of tourism are fairly distributed throughout the country.

Tourism is an important pillar of the Spanish economy, accounting for 11.7% of GDP and 12.2% of employment. 

However, changing social and environmental factors require a shift from traditional 'sun and sand' tourism to a more diversified, quality-driven model.

The strategy introduces a new growth model based on:

• Socio-economic sustainability: Increasing the profitability of the sector while promoting competitiveness.
• Environmental protection: Prioritising the preservation of Spain's rich natural and cultural heritage.
• Social equity: Ensuring that the benefits of tourism are distributed fairly, addressing issues such as rural depopulation.
• Collaborative governance: Promoting cooperation between the state, local authorities and the tourism sector.
• Adaptation and innovation: Enabling responsiveness to ongoing changes in the global tourism landscape.
• Leadership: Consolidating Spain's role as a global leader in sustainable tourism.

1. Collaborative governance 
2. Sustainable growth
3. Competitive transformation
4. Tourist areas, companies, and individuals
5. Product marketing and tourism intelligence

Spain's Sustainable Tourism Strategy for 2030 aims to create a balanced and resilient tourism model that benefits the whole country, preserves its rich heritage and ensures that Spain remains a top destination for international travellers. This strategy is also in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030.