According to a report by HT, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister SS Sukhu inaugurated the sixth edition of the India International Hospitality Expo 2023 at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida on Wednesday. The expo has chosen Himachal Pradesh as the focus state this year, aiming to boost and advance the hospitality industry in the hilly region.

Rakesh Kumar, Chairman of India Exposition Mart Limited (IEML), announced that over 250 exhibitors from across the country are participating in the four-day B2B expo. These exhibitors, all hospitality professionals, are showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the industry, covering everything from crockery items to architectural designs, horticulture to sanitization.

The expo provides a platform for these exhibitors to showcase their products to more than 20,000 registered buyers attending the event. Himachal Pradesh has recently gained international attention and has seen a surge in tourism, welcoming 1.6 crore visitors as of June 2023.

Addressing the gathering, the chief minister expressed the state government’s commitment to enhancing tourism in Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized the importance of robust infrastructure development, particularly in the Kangra district, to attract tourists and boost the state’s economy.

The chief minister clarified the land laws in Himachal Pradesh, stating that non-residents are generally not allowed to purchase land in the state. However, there is a provision for government approval, enabling investors, especially in the hotel and hospitality sector, to acquire land and property. This presents a significant opportunity for investment in Himachal.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent Himachal Pradesh officials, including Raghubeer Singh Bali, Chairman of the HP Tourism Development Corporation Limited, and Pramod Saxena, Chief Secretary of the Himachal government.

The four-day India International Hospitality Expo 2023 concludes on August 5.