Miami Sets Sight On India’s Growing Potential As Key Market

India is expected to be the only international market that will surpass its number of passengers that it generated to the US in 2019, by about 139% : Jose Docal

Jose Docal, Director Travel Industry Sales at Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, during his visit to India mentioned to T3 on how Miami looks at India’s potential as a source market. “It is difficult to access India’s position as a source market for us, since we don’t have direct connectivity yet. But India is an important market for us, and I am learning and exploring the potential, which is why I am here again to meet travel agents and tour operators.”

To strength ties with the Indian travel-trade fraternity, Docal mentioned that the bureau is relying on AviaReps who represent Miami in the Indian market, and help with information and opportunities in India. “We haven’t totally laid out the strategy, but we are definitely trying to get our feet in the India market. We are trying to be present in those events and roadshows that would give us the highest visibility and more opportunities to connect.”

He further mentioned that until pandemic, the golden child of the world was China, but since China will take some time to revive its previous position, India is in a very good position and the potential is now seen globally. According to his statement, India is expected to be the only international market that will surpass its number of passengers that it generated to the US in 2019, by about 139%.

“But out of Miami’s top traditional source markets, 3 of the top 5 are from Latin America like Brazil, Columbia, Argentina and 4^th is UK, followed by Germany. Unfortunately, India doesn’t rank in our top 20 international source markets right now, but I am confident that this will change in the next few years”, Docal added. He further said “Because we are expecting direct air services into Miami. We might hear good news from Indian market, potentially by 2025/26, and also for the market in general in terms of an easier way to get to Greater Miami & Miami Beach.”

Talking about plans in 2024, Docal emphasized on the series of events that Miami is hosting during its ‘high season’ which is from December to May. “This is helping us in getting additional high-end luxury travelers to the destination. Formula One Grand Prix, Miami Open Tennis Tournament, South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and more such events bring people who spend millions of dollars in experiences, and through such events we get access to such high-end segment travelers.”

“2024 is going to be a busy year for Miami, since Copa America 2024 is coming to Miami in July, where two matches will be taking place including the Final on July 14^th. And these matches will bring travelers to Miami in summer which is traditionally a low season. This year is going to be events and events, bringing that momentum in demand for the destination”, mentioned Docal.