Tourism Republika Srpska economic growth was highlighted by Minister of Trade and Tourism Denis Šulić, who confirmed it as a key driver.
“Year after year, Republika Srpska records an increase in the number of arrivals and overnight stays, as well as the range of countries from which tourists come,” Šulić emphasized while congratulating September 27 – World Tourism Day.
He noted that tourism is not a secondary or occasional activity for those with extra time or capital, but a sector that has significantly developed in recent years—both among rural households and through investments in luxury facilities and amenities across Republika Srpska.
“For a long time, there was a prejudice that tourism as an industry was reserved only for destinations with seas, beaches, ski resorts, or major European and world capitals. However, recent years have shown that the world is increasingly turning toward nature, outdoor experiences, good cuisine, and healthy local food. Republika Srpska has found its opportunity in this shift, and judging by the statistics, we are making the most of it,” Šulić pointed out.
He added that this year’s World Tourism Day slogan, “Tourism and Transformation,” reflects the example of Republika Srpska, which has demonstrated how tourism can successfully transform both society and the economy.
Šulić stressed that World Tourism Day is also an excellent opportunity to review achieved results and set new goals for tourism development.
“These results are not accidental but the outcome of continuous work on improving tourist infrastructure, staff training, destination promotion, and the development of sustainable and other forms of tourism. The Ministry of Trade and Tourism of Republika Srpska will continue implementing strategies to further develop tourism in Srpska,” Šulić told SRNA.
According to data from the Tourist Organization, Republika Srpska welcomed 286,816 visitors in the first seven months of this year, who achieved 694,155 overnight stays—an increase of 4.6 percent in arrivals and 3 percent in overnight stays compared to last year.
From January to July, the number of overnight stays in mountain destinations rose by 6.9 percent compared to the same period last year, while spa resorts attracted 3.5 percent more visitors.
The Tourist Organization of Republika Srpska will mark World Tourism Day this year with a special event in Zvornik.
World Tourism Day has been celebrated by tourism professionals across the globe every September 27 for the past 45 years.
Source: RTRS
