On October 6, 2026, Manuel Gavira, the second vice president and Minister of Tourism, Justice, Deregulation, and Local Administration, emphasized the importance of results-oriented tourism innovation and data-driven management during the opening of the Tourism Innovation Summit – TIS2026 in Seville.
Gavira stated that technological transformation in the tourism industry is essential to "reinforce the competitiveness of sector companies, improve destination management, and extend the opportunities generated by this activity throughout the Andalusian territory." He noted, "Competition is advancing, visitors are evolving, and our companies need responses," urging administrations to be ambitious, make decisions based on reliable information, and provide tools that the sector can leverage, such as the Andalucía Nexus initiative.
He praised Andalusia's position in the tourism market, which is based on "heritage, diversity, talent, and business fabric." He argued that the region's offer is one that "builds its excellence every day, forming teams, taking risks, innovating, and overcoming difficulties." Gavira also stressed that innovation should serve the development objectives of the sector, advocating for the evaluation of initiatives based on their real utility in solving problems, assisting the sector, and improving decision-making for both businesses and destinations, as well as the administration itself.
He encouraged the industry to continue advancing by connecting areas such as data, artificial intelligence, promotion, training, and knowledge of the territory to "facilitate trend anticipation, enhance campaign targeting, and support decision-making for businesses and destinations."
Furthermore, Gavira highlighted the need for this transformation to reach both professionals, who must apply new tools in their daily activities, and the entire territory to extend the benefits of tourism. He noted that coastal areas, monumental cities, and inland municipalities present different circumstances that require tailored responses. He emphasized that local residents should perceive tourism as a contributor to improving their environment, sustaining opportunities, and respecting the life of their municipalities.
Gavira called for rigor in the integration of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for reliable data, expert supervision, and concrete applications. He stated that its utility "should be measured by its ability to save time, improve analyses, and enhance the work of professionals."
Finally, he urged collaboration among businesses, administrations, universities, knowledge centers, and entrepreneurs to translate the ideas and solutions discussed at TIS into the real functioning of the sector.
TIS2026, taking place in Seville until October 8, brings together around 8,000 professionals and features over 200 exhibiting companies showcasing solutions to address the main challenges in the industry, including systems based on artificial intelligence, data analysis strategies, automation tools, cybersecurity, and sustainable innovation. The event includes presentations and discussions from approximately 400 international experts, providing professionals with insights into technologies that enhance understanding of new traveler demands, improve experiences, and optimize the management of tourism businesses.
