Under a regional agreement made through the
Central American Integration System (SICA), the countries of
the region will open a joint office in Madrid to promote the
entire Central American region as a destination for European
tourists.
The Central American Tourism Promotion Agency (CATA) will
follow several lines of action: promotion and marketing activities
will be aimed at positioning Central America as a sustainable
tourist destination; market intelligence activities and a
variety of publications will more effectively carry Central
America to the world public; and technical assistance will
help provide the tools necessary to develop markets and implement
certification processes.
Each of the member countries will contribute to the management
and funding of CATA. Primary financial resources will include
consulting fees, publications, conferences and special events.
Members will include representatives from airlines, cruise
lines, advertising agencies, tourism associations, hotel chains,
banks, tour operators and other organizations working to promote
tourism and regional expansion.