Spanish Travel Agencies Report Steady Tourism to Morocco
The Spanish Confederation of Travel Agencies (CEAV) has categorically refuted claims of widespread cancellations in tourism bookings to Morocco following the recent surge of irregular migrants entering the occupied city of Ceuta in late July. According to the union, tourism flows remain robust, highlighted by the continuation of group trips and activities within the conference and business tourism sectors. CEAV, which encompasses 39 professional associations from various regions across Spain, expressed through its president, José Manuel Astre, that Spanish tour operators are actively engaged in collaborative tourism programs between Spain and Morocco.
In a statement made to the specialized tourism and hospitality website “Hosteltur,” Astre elaborated that while there was a slight decrease in new bookings at the onset of the crisis, there have been no recorded cancellations. Communication with airlines echoed this sentiment, indicating that although the pace of bookings slowed initially, flight operations have continued at satisfactory levels. Astre emphasized the importance of relying on precise data, stating that there are no indications of a significant wave of cancellations directed towards Morocco. He also acknowledged the impact on the tourism sector in Ceuta, which contributes over 12% to the city's annual GDP.
Positive Trends in Spanish Tourism Sector
Furthermore, data released by CEAV reveals a 7.2% increase in revenue for Spanish travel agencies and tour operators during the first half of this year, compared to a 3.9% increase in the same period last year. Spain welcomed over 44 million tourists in the first half of 2026, marking a 3.1% growth from the previous year. Additionally, employment in the travel agency sector surged by 14.6% in the second quarter of this year compared to the first quarter. Astre noted that despite months of uncertainty in the tourism sector, primarily due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, demand has shown a remarkable capacity for recovery. He pointed out that the variety of offerings available has successfully stimulated bookings during the peak months of the tourism season, a trend that continues into September, a month that is increasingly significant for Spanish holidays, particularly among certain traveler demographics seeking better prices.
In conclusion, September is gaining importance in the travel calendar, with agencies and tour operators continuing to launch new products and offerings. This reflects a segment of travelers who intentionally delay their vacations, allowing for discussions of an extended summer season in the tourism industry.
As reported by hespress.com.
