Русский
We live in an era where travel enthusiasts increasingly seek authentic and immersive experiences, gastronomic tourism has emerged as a unique avenue for exploring the culture and traditions of a destination through its food. As a result, the concept of gastronomic tourism has gained traction over the years, shaping how people view global culinary scenes, and hence cultures and peoples.
One item that representatives of the BRICS countries have discussed were what steps could be taken at the national level to further develop sustainable and inclusive tourism. During the recent BRICS working group meeting Russia proposed establishing the Association of Ethno-Gastronomic Tourism. According to Nikita Kondratyev, director of the Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects of the Russian Ministry of Economic Development, quoted on the Ministry’s website, this will help strengthen cooperation between states and the private sector.
“The accession of new members to BRICS expands not only the geography but also the cultural diversity of the association. This becomes a competitive advantage to promote the tourism potential of the member states,” he said.
Kondratiev mentioned that gastronomic travel in the world has been developing strongly in recent years. “According to experts’ estimates, already in 2025 the industry volume may exceed $1 trillion” he said and stressed that such dynamics can be associated with the growth of tourist spending, the increasing popularity of niche tours and travelers’ interest in eco-friendly food.
In the context of BRICS this concept is about much more than food. It reflects the culture, heritage, traditions and sense of community of different peoples. It is a way of promoting understanding among different cultures, and of bringing people and traditions closer together. Ethno-Gastronomic tourism is also emerging as an important protector of cultural heritage, helps create opportunities, including jobs, most notably in rural destinations.
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