Mercado Público Barrageiro nominated for international tourism award

The Mercado Público Barrageiro in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, is a finalist for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA) 2026. It is the sole Brazilian competitor in the category for initiatives representing positive community impact in tourism.

Managed by Itaipu Parquetec and Itaipu Binacional, the project connects tourism, culture, and local development. The initiative supports approximately 210 operational staff and maintains connections with over 900 local producers, artisans, and partner families. It competes against entries from countries including Ecuador, Kenya, and England.

The winner will be announced on December 9 in Paris, France. The selection process is determined by a popular vote open to the public until October 21, with votes from tourism and hospitality professionals carrying double weight.