ITANAGAR, Oct 30: The 14th International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2026 commenced in Tawang on Thursday, bringing together tourism leaders, policymakers, industry stakeholders, buyers and international delegates to showcase the tourism potential of the Northeast and explore opportunities for partnerships and investment.
The event was inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp in the presence of Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, among other dignitaries.
Returning to Tawang after 13 years, the tourism mart provides a platform for showcasing the natural beauty, cultural heritage and tourism products of all eight Northeastern states. It also seeks to strengthen tourism partnerships, facilitate business-to-business interactions, attract investment and generate employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Addressing the media, Shekhawat highlighted the region’s tourism potential and the Centre’s efforts to improve connectivity, infrastructure and destination promotion. He said the mart had brought together 43 international buyers from 22 countries, 42 domestic buyers and 81 sellers, creating opportunities for business partnerships and greater market access for the region’s tourism industry.
He said the focus was on promoting lesser-known destinations, empowering local entrepreneurs and ensuring that tourism generated sustainable livelihoods while preserving the Northeast’s cultural heritage and natural environment.
Khandu highlighted the growth of tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, stating that annual tourist arrivals had increased from fewer than one lakh in the early 2010s to more than 10 lakh in 2025. He credited platforms such as the International Tourism Mart, supported by the Union Ministry of Tourism, with helping bring the state into the national and international tourism spotlight.
A major attraction of the event is the North East Bazaar, which showcases the traditional handicrafts, handloom, textiles, local products and cuisines of all eight Northeastern states. The bazaar provides artisans, weavers and entrepreneurs an opportunity to promote their products, connect with wider markets and explore new livelihood opportunities.
The mart is expected to strengthen the Northeast’s position as a tourism destination while encouraging investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism practices across the region.