DRV welcomes National Tourism Strategy as a clear signal for the travel industry - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

With the adoption of the National Tourism Strategy, the German federal cabinet has sent a strong signal recognising the importance of the travel and tourism industry. The German Travel Association (DRV) has expressly welcomed the decision, viewing it as an important framework for the future development of tourism in Germany, both domestically and in outbound travel markets.

As the leading association representing outbound tourism, the DRV sees the strategy as an acknowledgement of organised travel as a core pillar of the German economy. In particular, the focus on competitiveness and the reduction of bureaucratic burdens addresses key challenges facing the sector and creates the conditions for sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive international environment.

Tourism as a driver of growth and competitiveness

“The National Tourism Strategy underlines the importance of tourism and organised travel as a key growth sector and a cornerstone of the German economy,” said DRV President Albin Loidl. For outbound travel, the political commitment sends an important signal, as international travel continues to represent the core business of the travel industry. Strengthening the international competitiveness of German travel providers therefore remains essential.

In this context, the DRV also welcomes the inclusion of further development of insolvency protection via the German Travel Security Fund. The stated objective of reducing cost contributions for protected tour operators is seen as a meaningful step towards easing the financial burden on companies. “That this objective is now anchored in the National Tourism Strategy is something we welcome wholeheartedly on behalf of the industry,” Loidl added.

Infrastructure, mobility and international connectivity

From the DRV’s perspective, strengthening tourism and transport infrastructure is a central element of the strategy. Efficient transport links, both in air travel and at cruise ports, not only facilitate travel within Germany but also improve access to international destinations. This benefits leisure and business travel alike, both of which are of major importance to Germany’s economic performance as a travel hub.

The association also views the clear commitment to aviation and competitive location conditions as an important step. Planned measures to reduce security charges and location-related costs are expected to strengthen the international competitiveness of German airlines and travel providers, while safeguarding Germany’s long-term role as a key mobility hub.

Sustainability, digitalisation and skilled labour

The DRV also identifies positive impulses for the cruise sector. Investments in shore power facilities and port infrastructure provide the basis for more environmentally responsible cruise operations and help align ecological requirements with economic development. These measures are complemented by plans to accelerate visa procedures, which represent a decisive competitive advantage for international travel.

At European level, the DRV welcomes the approach of a low-bureaucracy Package Travel Directive. The deliberate avoidance of additional national regulatory burdens, combined with stronger European coordination, creates planning certainty for businesses and consumers alike. At the same time, digital tools and modern technologies open up new efficiency potential, including innovative identity solutions and targeted use of data.

Another key focus lies on attracting skilled labour and enabling more flexible working models. Securing qualified staff for the tourism sector and adapting working hours more closely to operational realities are seen as crucial for long-term stability across the industry.

Implementation as the decisive factor

“The strategy adopted now strikes a balance between growth, quality and sustainability, thereby strengthening the position of the outbound travel sector and its international partners,” Loidl said. The decisive factor will be the timely and consistent implementation of the announced measures. The DRV will continue to rely on close dialogue with policymakers, associations and experts to develop practical solutions and to secure the long-term future viability of the German travel industry.

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