Insights from the Recent Canarian Tourism Council Meeting
On May 8, 2026, a pivotal meeting of the Canarian Tourism Council occurred in Fuerteventura, expertly chaired by Jessica de León, the Tourism and Employment Counselor of the Government of the Canary Islands. The meeting was held at the Parque Tecnológico in Puerto del Rosario, where attendees discussed significant topics that could impact the region’s tourism industry.
Addressing Current Concerns in the Tourism Sector
A primary focus of the meeting was the evolving conflict in Ormuz and the situation involving a ship affected by hantavirus, which is expected to dock in Tenerife. Counselor de León emphasized the need to anticipate potential impacts on tourism stemming from these issues. She underscored that proactive measures are crucial in safeguarding the tourism sector, which plays a significant role in the Canarian economy.
Celebrating Innovation in Tourism: The Upcoming Awards
During the proceedings, de León announced an exciting event for the upcoming year—the Premios de Turismo Islas Canarias 2026 will be hosted for the first time in Fuerteventura on September 24 at the Palacio de Formación y Congresos in Puerto del Rosario. This move is part of a broader effort to diversify and decentralize the activities of the Tourism Department beyond Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
“This is a milestone for Fuerteventura, as we aim to celebrate achievements in tourism across all islands,” de León stated. This initiative represents an attempt to ensure recognition extends to all regions, promoting a more inclusive atmosphere.
New Jury Members for the Tourism Awards
In a significant development during the meeting, four new members were designated to the jury for the Premios de Turismo Islas Canarias 2026. These appointments expand the jury that will evaluate nominees across various categories. The newly appointed jury includes notable figures such as Susana Pérez, President of Asolan; Victoria López, Counselor of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Chamber of Commerce; Carlos Castillo, Secretary of Sustainability and Occupational Health for the CCOO Canarias Federation; and Inmaculada González, Director of the Canary Islands Chair of Sustainability and Data Intelligence in Tourism.
This diverse jury composition aims to reflect a wide range of expertise, ensuring a thorough evaluation of nominees.
Regulatory Developments in the Tourism Industry
The meeting also served as a platform to review the regulatory framework that the department has been developing over the past three years. This agenda aims to modernize the legal structure governing tourism in the Canary Islands. Significant advancements discussed include regulations for active tourism, the Law of Sustainable Management for Tourist Use of Housing, and the upcoming Canary Islands Tourism Law.
These legislative efforts represent a commitment to adapt the tourism industry to the current realities and challenges faced by the islands, promoting a sustainable and responsible tourism model.
Local Perspectives on Tourism Challenges
Marlene Figueroa, the Tourism Counselor for the Fuerteventura Cabildo, expressed her appreciation for convening the council meeting on the island. She emphasized the necessity of evaluating how international uncertainties impact the tourism sector and the employment that heavily relies on it, particularly in Fuerteventura.
Her insights highlight the need for localized discussions in addressing broader trends and challenges facing the tourism industry.
Engaging Stakeholders in the Industry
Representatives from the local business community also shared their perspectives during the meeting. Antonio Vicente Hormiga, a spokesperson for the local tourism association Asofuer, expressed his satisfaction at the council gathering. He noted that the event provided a valuable opportunity to directly discuss the main challenges the tourism sector is facing today.
Nominations Open for Tourism Awards
The deadline for submitting nominations for the Premios de Turismo Islas Canarias 2026 is fast approaching, with submissions open until May 30. These awards aim to celebrate innovative initiatives and career paths contributing to improvements in employment, innovation, sustainability, accessibility, inclusion, and the overall quality of tourism services. They play a crucial role in promoting the Canary Islands as a coveted national and international travel destination.
This ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the tourism industry underscores the significance of recognition and the celebration of achievements across all facets of tourism in the Canary Islands.
