SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 26, 2024 – In a landmark event for the region's burgeoning culinary scene, the first-ever UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific has concluded, leaving a lasting impact on the future of food-inspired travel in the region. Held at the picturesque Shangri-La Mactan in Cebu, the forum brought together over 500 delegates, including ministers of tourism, industry leaders, culinary experts, and community representatives, to explore the dynamic landscape of gastronomy tourism and chart a course for its sustainable growth.
The forum, organized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with the Basque Culinary Center (BCC) and the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, addressed a wide range of critical issues facing the sector. From policy frameworks and government action to community engagement and environmental sustainability, the discussions delved deep into the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead for this increasingly popular form of tourism.
Key themes that emerged during the forum included the need for greater collaboration between the tourism industry and other sectors, such as agriculture and culture, to ensure that gastronomy tourism benefits local communities and preserves cultural heritage. Participants also emphasized the importance of sustainable practices, such as reducing food waste and supporting local producers, to ensure the long-term viability of the sector.
One of the highlights of the forum was the Ministerial Dialogue, where high-level officials from various countries shared their insights and experiences in developing and promoting gastronomy tourism. Their discussions highlighted the diversity of culinary traditions and resources across the region, as well as the potential for gastronomy tourism to contribute to economic development, cultural exchange, and social empowerment.
The Cebu Call to Action on Gastronomy Tourism, a key outcome of the forum, serves as a blueprint for the future of the sector in the region. It calls for the creation of comprehensive strategies that integrate gastronomy tourism into national and regional tourism plans, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and empower local communities through training and capacity building.
The forum also showcased the culinary talents of renowned chefs from across the region, including four UNWTO Ambassadors for Sustainable Tourism – Chef Pilar Rodriguez (Chile), Chef Rudolf Stefan (Croatia), Chef Fatmata Binta (Ghana), and Chef Margarita Fores (Philippines). Their participation highlighted the role of chefs as cultural ambassadors and champions of sustainable tourism.
During the event, Chef Vicky Cheng from Hong Kong, China, was appointed as the newest UNWTO Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism, further strengthening the organization's commitment to promoting gastronomy tourism as a driver of positive change.
The first UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific has undoubtedly set the stage for a more vibrant and sustainable future for the sector in the region. By fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, the forum has laid the groundwork for gastronomy tourism to become a powerful force for economic growth, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability.
As the Asia-Pacific region continues to establish itself as a global culinary destination, the Cebu Call to Action provides a clear roadmap for stakeholders to work together in realizing the full potential of gastronomy tourism. The event has not only showcased the region's diverse culinary heritage but also its commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.