ICCA Latin America & Caribbean Summit 2025 concludes successfully and projects new opportunities for the meetings industry

Medellín successfully concluded the ICCA Latin America & Caribbean Summit 2025, consolidating its position as a regional and global benchmark in the meetings industry. Over four days, the city hosted more than 23 international associations from Latin America, Europe, the United States, and Australia, at least 15 of which represent business opportunities identified for Medellín that will translate into events for the coming years.

The event also brought together delegations and bureaus from Bogotá, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Cali, and Pereira, strengthening the collaborative work of the National Bureaux Network, which brings together 11 cities with a single purpose: to position Colombia as the ideal destination for major events, conferences, and unique experiences.

On the final day, Medellín hosted the launch of the Global Cities Future Forum, a new international platform dedicated to exploring how events can act as catalysts for foreign investment, global positioning, strengthening innovation ecosystems, attracting talent, and promoting international cooperation.

The Mayor of Medellín, Federico Gutiérrez, participated in the launch and highlighted:

"Medellín is ready to host events that add real value to the city: quality employment, investment, innovation, and opportunities for our people. We have overcome the most difficult moments in our history and today we have the security, infrastructure, and, above all, the human talent to compete with the best destinations in the world. Anything that generates employment and sustainable development will always have the support of this administration," the president stated.

The 2025 edition introduced new features that marked a milestone for the region:
the Cities Forum: the first edition in Latin America, which brought together authorities and leaders to discuss public policies and industry trends.

Traveling format: The event took place in various iconic locations in Medellín, showcasing its infrastructure and logistical capabilities.

Collaborative labs and workshops: Replacing traditional lectures, they encouraged the exchange of experiences and the co-creation of solutions.

Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA and a first-time visitor to the country, highlighted:

"It's fantastic that Medellín has hosted the ICCA Latin America & Caribbean Summit 2025, because we are part of the transformation of this city. Here, we work together on innovation and creative thinking, at a time when business events are growing dramatically. ICCA wants to support and enhance Medellín's role not only locally but also globally, taking its message to the world. The new projects and development areas that are coming here will be a fundamental part of our collaboration, and we will analyze how ICCA can contribute to its growth. I am delighted to be in this beautiful city and to be part of this important chapter for its future."

For her part, Ana María Mejía Mejía, Secretary in charge of Tourism and Entertainment of Medellín, stated: “We are delighted to have hosted the ICCA Summit 2025. This event continues to position Medellín as a capital of meetings tourism. We forged partnerships and conducted training and development not only for associations but also for the local community. Medellín has the infrastructure, strategic projects, and partnerships with academia and the business sector that strengthen the industry and allow us to continue consolidating our position in this sector.”

Following the Summit, the Greater Medellín Convention & Visitors Bureau, in conjunction with the Mayor's Office of Medellín, ProColombia, and the National Network of Bureaux, will initiate a follow-up plan with participating associations to strengthen the attraction of international events. Furthermore, Medellín will seek to leverage the momentum of the Global Cities Future Forum to attract high-impact conferences in sectors such as science, technology, innovation, health, and sustainability.

Source: ICCA.