Lisbon ranks second in the most desirable convention locations according to the International Congress and the Convention Association. The city rose four places in the standings to surpass Berlin, Vienna, Singapore and Madrid, but it was unable to overtake Paris. Paula Oliveira, executive director of the Lisbon Tourism Association, said the achievement was the result of the success of a strategy they had implemented over the years. Its success in the ranking will strengthen the international visibility of Lisbon, she said, which was good timing seeing as the entire tourism sector is fighting to recover from COVID-19. Over 70 events took place last year in university institutions, but hotels saw another 50+ gatherings.
The Lisbon Tourism Association argues that it is crucial to take measures to ensure the competitiveness of tourism in the Lisbon region as it produces jobs and revenues. Cancelling VAT on such activities the way Spain already does would help promote the city even more.
