June 2009 Board Meeting Update
Monterey, California
The NTA Board of Directors held its third meeting of the year June 7 in Monterey, California. Included on the board’s action was the approval of two strategic partners — the Indian Association of Tour Operators and the Africa Travel Association — and discussion on other items. Here is more information:
Indian Association of Tour Operators
The board approved a strategic partnership with the Indian Association of Tour operators. The tour operators of IATO serve the inbound market to India as well as the outbound market. Alongside China, India is seen as market of great potential.
Africa Travel Association
The board also approved a new partnership with the Africa Travel Association, which will help NTA operators learn more about potential business opportunities and travel to the African nations.
COTTM in 2010
This year, NTA developed a USA Pavilion at the China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market. Due to the success of this show and the pavilion, the board approved moving forward in 2010 with a similar initiative. Early approval of NTA’s participation will allow NTA members to budget their participation in the NTA-created USA pavilion. COTTM is dedicated to outbound travel from China, giving U.S. members involved in this market a dedicated opportunity to reach both approved Chinese travel agents as well as consumers.
Travel Promotion Act
The board approved support of the Travel Promotion Act, which has currently been introduced in the Senate. The board noted that NTA does have questions about the act as it is currently presented and will be making these known before moving forward with full support.