Seychelles boosts regional tourism presence at 11th International Tourism Fair of Madagascar |21 June 2025
Seychelles boosts regional tourism presence at 11th International Tourism Fair of Madagascar
Tourism Seychelles recently marked a significant milestone in regional cooperation by participating in the 11th International Tourism Fair of Madagascar (ITM), held from June 12 to 15, 2025, at the CCI Ivato in Antananarivo.
Organised by Madagascar’s National Tourism Office (ONTM), the event provided an invaluable platform to deepen collaboration within the Vanilla Islands initiative – a strategic alliance promoting tourism across the Indian Ocean region.
The Seychelles delegation featured key figures including Bernadette Willemin, director general for Destination Marketing; Bernadette Honore, senior marketing executive and Seychelles’ representative for the Indian Ocean; and Cindy Tirant, director of Tirant Tours & Travel. Together, they engaged extensively with regional tourism stakeholders, strengthening partnerships and exploring new business opportunities.
Highlighting Seychelles’ growing connectivity, Ms Honore emphasised the impact of the recently launched Emirates air route linking Dubai, Seychelles, and Antananarivo. “This new connection has significantly boosted Seychelles’ visibility among Madagascar’s tour operators,” she explained. “We are witnessing increased interest from local travel agencies, who now find it much easier to promote Seychelles as a preferred destination. ITM provides an essential forum to solidify these relationships and broaden our market reach.”
The fair drew diverse delegations from across the Indian Ocean region and beyond, with Madagascar showcasing its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural attractions during an opening ceremony officiated by President Andry Rajoelina. Morocco was welcomed as the 2025 guest of honour, joining the six Vanilla Islands nations – Seychelles, Réunion Island, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte and Comoros in celebrating regional tourism cooperation.
In addition to ITM, Tourism Seychelles actively participated in the General Assembly of the Vanilla Islands, held concurrently with the fair. This assembly focused on advancing strategic initiatives that enhance multi-island tourism experiences and promote the Indian Ocean as a premier travel destination.
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