Omar Aziz proposes sustainable tourism to diversify Amazonas economy

Omar Aziz, a candidate for the Governor of Amazonas, has presented a strategic development plan that positions sustainable tourism as a key driver for economic diversification and job creation. The proposal aims to revitalize the sector following a significant decline in visitor numbers; between 2019 and 2024, total tourists dropped by over 33%, while foreign visitors saw a decrease of 75%.

The plan focuses on five priority segments: cultural tourism, cruise tourism, event tourism, nature tourism, and sport fishing. Nature-based initiatives include ecotourism, community-based tourism, bird watching, and low-impact jungle lodging. Cultural initiatives aim to promote local traditions, historical heritage, and interaction with indigenous and traditional communities.

To expand economic opportunities beyond the capital, the strategy includes investments in infrastructure, improved air connectivity, professional training, and the creation of municipal tourism hubs. The plan also seeks to institutionalize support by allocating a fixed percentage of the Tourism Promotion Fund to infrastructure and regional development, addressing the need for new revenue streams amidst national tax reforms.