Meloni: tourism expresses Italian identity, sector decisive for growth

Meloni: tourism expresses Italian identity, sector decisive for growth and cohesion

At the 76th Federalberghi National Assembly Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni presented tourism as more than an economic sector, describing it as a key element of Italy’s identity. Her remarks focused on the contribution of businesses and public policy in enhancing cultural heritage and supporting national growth.

Main points of the speech

• Tourism as a piece of national identity: an immersive cultural experience that conveys Italy’s history, values and lifestyle.
• Role of businesses and the supply chain: hoteliers and operators as central to quality and sector resilience.
• Government measures mentioned: creation of an autonomous Ministry of Tourism, investments in training, incentives for youth employment, tax relief on tips, and PNRR-funded actions for renovation and sustainability.
• Territorial enhancement: focus on villages, inland areas, pilgrimage routes and experiential tourism to promote seasonality smoothing and fight depopulation.
• Challenges: energy costs and international instability affecting companies' competitiveness.

Meloni called for a blend of ambition and realism to turn challenges into opportunities, promoting sustainable tourism that safeguards cultural identity and supports Italy’s social and economic cohesion.