Spanish Travel Agencies Report Steady Tourism Flow to Morocco
The Spanish Federation of Travel Agencies (CEAV) has categorically denied the occurrence of any significant cancellations of tourist bookings to Morocco following the recent influx of irregular migrants into the occupied city of Ceuta at the end of July. According to the federation, tourist flows have been proceeding smoothly, particularly with the continued operation of group travel and business tourism events.
In a statement made to the specialized tourism and hospitality site "Hosteltur" by CEAV President José Manuel Llastra, it was emphasized that Spanish travel organizers are still actively working on joint tourism programs between Spain and Morocco. Llastra explained that inquiries made to travel organizers focused on Moroccan destinations revealed a slight decline in new bookings at the onset of the crisis. However, they reported no cancellations. Communication with airlines yielded similar feedback, with a minor slowdown in bookings during the initial days, yet flights continued to operate at satisfactory levels.
Positive Trends in the Spanish Travel Sector
José Manuel Llastra underscored that while the CEAV does not wish to downplay any potential impacts of certain issues on tourism activities, it is committed to delivering information based on accurate data. He reiterated that there are no indicators suggesting a wave of cancellations towards Moroccan destinations. Moreover, he noted the adverse effects being felt in Ceuta's tourism sector, which contributes over 12% to the city's annual GDP.
Further insights from the CEAV indicate that revenues for Spanish travel agencies and tour operators rose by 7.2% in the first half of this year compared to a 3.9% increase during the same period last year. Spain welcomed over 44 million tourists in the first half of 2026, marking a 3.1% increase from the previous year, while employment in the travel agency sector saw a 14.6% rise in the second quarter compared to the first quarter of the same year.
Llastra stated that the tourism sector in Spain has experienced months of uncertainty, primarily due to geopolitical situations in the Middle East, yet demand has shown a remarkable capacity for recovery. He added that various promotional offers have stimulated bookings during the peak months of the tourist season, and this trend is expected to continue into September, a month that is gaining importance for Spanish holidays, particularly among certain traveler demographics seeking better prices.
As September gains traction, travel agencies and tour operators continue to introduce new products and offers into the market, catering to travelers who intentionally delay their vacations, thus allowing for discussions of an extended summer season.
As reported by hespress.com.
