227 The India International Travel Mart (IITM) opened in Hyderabad this week, marking a key milestone for the travel and tourism sector as global and domestic brands convene to showcase destinations, services, and innovations. Held at the Hitex Exhibition Centre, the event features over 100 participants from countries including Thailand, Malaysia, and Nepal, alongside strong representation from Indian states such as Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala. This year’s edition emphasizes not only outbound travel but also the growing momentum in domestic tourism and India’s potential as a host destination. Travel brands, tour operators, state tourism boards, and international delegations are engaging in B2B networking, package promotions, and cultural exchange to boost visibility and bookings ahead of the 2025–26 travel cycle. Organizers noted a significant spike in interest from both leisure and business travel sectors, driven by pent-up demand, rising disposable income, and a renewed focus on sustainable travel experiences. The event also saw increased participation from newer tourism boards keen to attract Indian travellers with curated experiences and visa-on-arrival programs. IITM has grown into a crucial platform for tourism stakeholders to gauge market sentiment, build trade partnerships, and promote new travel circuits. With 2025 shaping up to be a high-growth year for the sector, the event offers a timely pulse check on how the industry is adapting to new consumer expectations post-pandemic. You Might Be Interested In AI Comes to the Humble Notepad on Windows 11 TCS Spotlighted by UN Report for Responsible Marketing via ReScore App Norwegian cruise line brings back iconic ’90s tagline in new global campaign X’s Grok sparks global outrage after AI chatbot morphs photos into explicit content Mattel Bets Big on Barbie Dream Fest to Reignite Brand Love Through Experience Why Flipkart’s Ugadi campaign signals a shift in festive marketing