Italian Tourism Minister Mazzi Unveils 'Ten Commandments' to Boost Sector
On July 15, 2026, Gianmarco Mazzi, the Italian Minister of Tourism, unveiled a ten-point plan to parliamentary committees, highlighting the significance of tourism as a strategic sector that accounts for more than 13% of the nation’s GDP and provides jobs for 3 million individuals. The plan aims to attract private investments, mitigate seasonality, and enhance sustainability. Set to kick off on September 27, coinciding with World Tourism Day, the initiative titled 'Because Tourism is a Strategic Industry' will emphasize diffuse tourism. The Infrastructure Development Fund will allocate €320 million from 2027 to 2036 to support small towns, alongside extra funding for accessibility and digital advancements. Cultural tourism alone brings in over €56 billion, with almost 60% of international tourists drawn by Italy's cultural heritage. Future projects include pursuing UNESCO recognition for Neapolitan classical music and various tourism events. Italy is also a leader in congress tourism across Europe.
Key facts
- Gianmarco Mazzi presented a ten-point plan to parliamentary commissions on July 15, 2026.
- Tourism contributes over 13% to Italy's GDP and employs over 3 million workers.
- The initiative 'Because Tourism is a Strategic Industry' will be held on September 27, World Tourism Day.
- €320 million from the Infrastructure Development Fund will be allocated to small tourist municipalities and minor islands from 2027 to 2036.
- €109 million from the GreenTour Fund and €121 million from the Development and Cohesion Agreement are earmarked for accessibility and digitalization.
- Cultural tourism generates over €56 billion and nearly 60% of foreign visitors choose Italy for its cultural heritage.
- A new tour guide licensing tender was published in April 2026 but was problematic.
- Upcoming projects include the Cammino di Francesco (July 30), Cammino di Giovanni Paolo II (October 16), Giro d'Italia dei borghi, Mediterranean Games in Taranto, and America's Cup 2027 in Naples.
Entities
Institutions
- Ministero del Turismo
- Ufficio Statistica del Ministero del Turismo
- Commissioni riunite Attività produttive della Camera
- Industria del Senato
- UNESCO
- TTG Rimini
- ICCA
- Artribune
Locations
- Italy
- Spagna
- Europa
- Taranto
- Napoli
- Rimini
- Polonia