Uruguay strengthens its position as a sustainable and competitive MICE destination

What are Uruguay's main objectives in participating in IMEX America?

Our goal is to position Uruguay's meeting tourism industry, especially in the North American segment. We know that IMEX has its own version in Europe and this year's edition in the Americas, so we believe it's essential to be present at both to strengthen the promotion of our country and attract more international events.

What new developments or infrastructures can you highlight at the moment?

In Montevideo, we have the Antel Arena, one of the largest convention centers in the country. It has a capacity for 12,000 people and covers more than 40,000 square meters, hosting concerts, trade shows, conventions, and sporting events. It's a modern complex, just ten years old, and, as it belongs to the national telecommunications company, boasts cutting-edge network and connectivity technology, essential for today's events.

What incentives does Uruguay offer to organizers who choose the country as a host country?

International events are exempt from VAT—which is 22% in Uruguay. Organizers who register their event with the Ministry of Tourism can obtain a declaration of tourist interest, which allows them to access this benefit. The exemption applies to expenses such as room rentals, catering services, and simultaneous interpretation, which represents an important competitive advantage for attracting international meetings.

What kind of complementary experiences can groups visiting Uruguay enjoy?

One of the most notable is wine tourism. Uruguay has significantly developed this segment and last year hosted the First Responsible Wine Tourism Summit. We especially promote Tannat, our flagship grape variety, and offer experiences at wineries located near major cities. Montevideo, Colonia, and Punta del Este are connected by short distances, which facilitates logistics for groups. In these areas, you can enjoy wine and olive oil tastings, picnics, and guided tours, as well as visits to museums such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Maldonado, or enjoy the sunset at Casa Pueblo, a premium experience highly valued by visitors.

How is Uruguay working on sustainability within meeting tourism?

Uruguay is firmly committed to sustainability. Currently, 95% of the energy we consume comes from renewable sources. In the case of the Antel Arena, for example, responsible waste management and energy efficiency practices are applied. Environmental awareness is very strong throughout the country, both among the population and visitors. Furthermore, electric mobility is growing rapidly, reinforcing our commitment to responsible tourism and sustainable destinations.