Peru approves the General Tourism Law, which will strengthen and modernize the sector

The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) expressed its satisfaction with the final approval of the new General Tourism Law by the Congress of the Republic, following a second vote that resulted in a large majority of 87 votes in favor. This law marks a turning point for the country's tourism development, updating a legal framework that had been in place for more than 15 years.

"The new law represents a structural change in the way we promote tourism in Peru. It is a modern, inclusive, and forward-looking regulation that responds to the true needs of the sector," said Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism Desilú León.

A LAW ORIENTED TOWARD SUSTAINABLE AND COMPETITIVE DEVELOPMENT
The new General Tourism Law consolidates the role of the Ministry of Tourism (MINCETUR) as the governing body of national tourism policy. It is responsible for formulating and updating the National Strategic Tourism Plan (PENTUR), guiding its implementation at all levels of government and promoting an integrated vision of tourism development.

Among the main advances of the new legislation is the creation of Special Tourism Development Zones (ZEDT), prioritized areas to boost private investment, improve tourism infrastructure, and increase regional competitiveness. These zones will have differentiated tax benefits, such as preferential income tax rates for tourism activities that promote local employment, sustainability, and added value.

The law also strengthens the role of the State as an investment promoter. The Ministry of Tourism (MINCETUR) will be able to coordinate and supervise tourism investment projects at the national level, in coordination with regional and local governments. Furthermore, it establishes the use of mechanisms such as PPPs, tax-based projects, and asset-based projects, which will facilitate multisectoral interventions that contribute to reducing structural gaps.

Another key component of the regulation is the focus on formalizing the sector. The sale of tourist services in public spaces is prohibited, oversight tools are strengthened, and clear sanctions are imposed for those who operate outside the law. This will improve the quality of the tourism offering and provide greater safety for visitors, especially in segments such as adventure tourism.

Sustainable practices such as the circular economy, community tourism, and responsible environmental management are also recognized and integrated. The law promotes tourism as a cross-cutting activity that positively impacts job creation, economic growth, and local development.

Tourism promotion is also being strengthened through Promperú, which will be able to implement more targeted campaigns, use digital tools, and develop strategies aimed at both domestic and inbound tourism.

For all these reasons, Mincetur thanks the Congress of the Republic, subnational governments, and the private sector for their active participation in the process of creating this new law, which is the result of a collective achievement.

In 2024, tourism generated more than S/ 31.1 billion, representing a 23.3% growth compared to the previous year. For every S/ 1 million of public investment, a return of S/ 11.7 million in tourism activity, S/ 3.1 million in salaries, and S/ 1.67 million in revenue is estimated.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru.