The 2026 edition of IFTM Top Resa, a leading tourism trade fair in Paris, has concluded on a positive note for Indian Ocean destinations. La Réunion, Mauritius, and Seychelles each presented their unique tourism strategies, focusing on upgrading their offerings and diversifying their client base. This approach aims to move beyond the traditional price and sun-based competition in a saturated international market. The event saw significant participation from the three destinations, with a strong emphasis on showcasing their distinct attractions.
La Réunion's new Comité Réunionnais du Tourisme (CRT), formed by the merger of IRT and FRT, made a substantial presence with 32 representatives. The island's tourism statistics for the first half of 2026 indicate a strategic shift towards attracting high-spending visitors. Despite a slight decline in visitor numbers (-1%), the destination recorded a 9.5% increase in revenue, reaching €250.9 million. This growth is attributed to a focus on quality over quantity, prioritizing visitors who spend more.
Mauritius, represented by the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), showcased a strong lineup of 24 co-exhibitors. These included hoteliers, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), the Office de tourisme de Rodrigues, Air Mauritius, and activity provider Odysseo. The Mauritian tourism board emphasized the island's upgraded offerings, moving beyond the standard all-inclusive packages. The focus is on highlighting Mauritius' rich gastronomic heritage, cultural diversity, and sustainable tourism practices.
The presence of Rodrigues, a smaller island in the Mauritian archipelago, alongside the main island, signals an effort to promote a broader "archipelagic" experience. This approach aims to encourage visitors to explore beyond the traditional Mauritian lagoon. Seychelles, another prominent Indian Ocean destination, consolidated its presence in the French market with a participation led by luxury hotel chains and Air Seychelles.
The three destinations demonstrated an understanding that in a competitive international market, the key to success lies in presenting a unique narrative. La Réunion focuses on nature and authenticity, while Mauritius emphasizes upgrading and sustainability. Seychelles, on the other hand, prioritizes qualitative visitor experiences and loyalty. These distinct strategies reflect the diverse strengths of each destination.
A significant aspect of Mauritius' strategy is to reduce its dependence on the French market, which currently accounts for 80% of its visitors. The destination aims to attract more visitors from Belgium, Germany, and the UK. La Réunion's new campaign, "Montez en émotions," highlights the island's diverse landscapes, Creole culture, and a new generation of Villages Créoles.
The IFTM Top Resa 2026 event demonstrated the Indian Ocean destinations' commitment to evolving their tourism industries. By focusing on quality, sustainability, and unique experiences, La Réunion, Mauritius, and Seychelles aim to stand out in a crowded market. Their participation in the trade fair underscores their dedication to attracting visitors who appreciate the value of their distinct cultural and natural offerings.
Key points
- Indian Ocean destinations focus on upgrading tourism offerings and diversifying client base at IFTM Top Resa 2026.
