In a conversation that covered everything from the evolution of the event to tourist attraction policies, Oliveira highlighted the central role of culture and creativity in promoting the state.
The Growth of the Fair and Tourism in Minas Gerais
Travel Next Minas has shown significant growth, reflecting the growth of tourism in Minas Gerais. According to Leônidas Oliveira, the fair has tripled in size, symbolizing the increase in tourist interest in the state. "Minas Gerais leads the IBGE's cycle of economic creativity, and this is reflected in our participation in events like this," said the secretary.
Oliveira also emphasized the central role of Minas Gerais culture in promoting tourism. "Our stand features the colors of the region, the reference to Minas Gerais cuisine and the concept of the wood-burning stove as the center of family life," he explained. For him, the design of the stands goes beyond a visual representation, offering a sensory experience that reflects the essence of Minas Gerais. Interestingly, the Minas Gerais stands were designed by Leônidas de Oliveira himself, who is also an architect and urban planner and was once president of Embratur.
Event Attraction and Tourism Diversification Policies
Event tourism was highlighted as one of the pillars for attracting tourists to Minas Gerais. Oliveira stressed the importance of personal connection in a post-pandemic world, where physical presence at events has once again become essential. "We created an event attraction policy that allows any municipality in Minas Gerais to register to host events, with support from the Minas Gerais Development Company," he said.
This policy has already shown results, with 100% hotel occupancy in November and December of last year, with minimal investment. In addition, the secretary spoke about tourism diversification, with the creation of routes that connect different areas of Minas Gerais. "The Rota das Artes, for example, connects Belo Horizonte, Praça da Liberdade, Pampulha, Inhotim, Ouro Preto and other cities that preserve our rich history," he explained.
The Role of Carnival in the Creative Economy
The Belo Horizonte Carnival, a traditional festival that has gained momentum as a political movement, was also a topic of discussion. Oliveira explained the professionalization of the carnival blocks and the importance of understanding the tourism production chain associated with the event. "This year, Carnival generated 4.7 billion reais in the economy of Minas Gerais and attracted 12 million people," he highlighted.
The Meu Negócio Carnaval Space, created at the fair, aims to further professionalize the sector, allowing samba schools and groups to connect with operators and other tourism stakeholders. "We want Carnival to increasingly be a business opportunity, without losing its cultural identity," said Oliveira.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Challenges
Despite the progress, Oliveira acknowledged significant challenges, especially in the area of infrastructure and connectivity. "Although we have increased the number of cities served by local flights to fifteen, the state's road network still needs special attention," he admitted. According to him, the Minas Gerais government is committed to carrying out the largest road recovery effort in the last ten years.
The rise of a management
Leônidas Oliveira has a resume, experience, creativity and strategy that result in the growth of economic development generated by tourism in the state.
Check out the numbers
- 100% hotel occupancy in November and December last year in the state of MG;
-15 cities served by local flights, when he arrived at the secretariat, there were only 2 cities with local flights, but this number increased to 15;
- 7.5 million visitors: Minas Gerais received 7.5 million visitors last year;
- 392 million reais for cultural events: This year, 392 million reais were allocated for cultural events;
- 20 thousand people at the cultural event in Jequitinhonha: The cultural event in the city of Jequitinhonha, which started with a thousand people, now attracts around 20 thousand;
- 4.7 billion reais: The economy generated by Carnival in Minas Gerais this year was 4.7 billion reais;
- 12 million people: Carnival attracted 12 million people to Minas Gerais this year.
- 50 thousand formal jobs: Tourism in Minas Gerais generated 50 thousand formal jobs.
These numbers show the significant impact that tourism and events have had on the economy and cultural development of the state of Minas Gerais.
Report: Mary de Aquino.
Photo: Leo Bicalho.