Conference Programme

The inherent fragmentation of Travel & Tourism has meant that over the years its immense social and economic impact has not been fully recognized.  Similarly, its full potential to create jobs and prosperity and to cement peace has yet to be realized.

. What is the outlook for Travel & Tourism growth in the global context?  How does this compare with other economic sectors?

. What is the role for government in helping the industry realize its potential?

. Similarly, what is the role of the private sector?

. How can the two sectors align their actions to reach goals of overall prosperity?

Demographics will be one of the most important factors affecting the shape of the industry in the medium- to long-term. Booming population growth across much of the developing world combined with an ageing population in the world's major developed economies will raise a series of questions including:

. How will the new population landscape affect Travel & Tourism demand across the world?

. How does the industry respond to the world's ageing and growing population?

. As global demographic patterns change, is Travel & Tourism part of the answer to the increasing disparity between the 'haves' and the 'have nots'? How can it contribute?

Air travel is a vital component of the Travel & Tourism industry.  Some airline models are losing money and are unable to achieve long-term profitability while facilitating the safe, efficient and enjoyable transportation of people.  Social, security and environmental challenges are constantly slowing down the adaptation of infrastructure to increasing demand while technology-based opportunities offer a range of future scenarios.

. What are the scenarios for success?

. What is the business model for aviation which will ensure the industry's long-term viability?

.  How can we balance the needs of travel with those of the environment?

. How can we balance security needs with those of cross border travel?

From biometrics and new aircraft designs, to travel distribution networks and state-of-the-art resorts and destinations, Travel & Tourism continues to harness technologies that meet the new and increasingly sophisticated levels of demand.

.  To what extent have these developments been pursued by public and private partners?

. Can new information technology systems be synchronized for the overall benefits of the industry, so that international standards regarding, for example, security-related systems such as visas, help to harmonize international efforts around the world?

. How can the private sector achieve individual recognition in a mass production system?

.  What role can 'standards' play in ensuring integrated solutions?

A new kind of threat - natural and health disasters - has surfaced and needs to be addressed.  The tsunami, Hurricane Katrina, the Asian earthquake and H5N1 avian flu are global problems that our industry and the international community as a whole have to prepare for.

. What contingency plans do governments have in the event of a natural disaster or disease pandemic?

. Which national and international organizations should the industry liaise with to be kept up-to-date on such plans?

. What strategies should the industry adopt to ensure effective preparation and communication in the event of a disaster?

. How can the impact of such a crisis on Travel & Tourism, and as a result the global economy, be mitigated?

There are examples throughout the world from destinations as diverse as Las Vegas, Dubai and Spain where Travel & Tourism has been developed using different models and means.  This session will bring together aims and ambitions with know-how and experience, to identify key factors for consideration in developing prosperous Travel & Tourism economies around the globe.

. Is there one or are there many different models for developing Travel & Tourism?

. What are the 'golden rules' for public and private partners to achieve successful development of a destination?

. Do we always take past failure or success stories into account when developing new destinations?

. What are the components which make up the image of a particular destination and how do cultural differences (changing/emerging national identities) determine travel patterns?

One of the main aims of our Summit has been for Travel & Tourism leaders from public and private sectors to share, openly and candidly, their experiences, international perspectives and new ideas. In our concluding session, the Secretary of Commerce, of the United States of America, will offer his perspectives on the future evolution of world affairs and will share the vision of the world's largest centre of commerce - the USA.