Uruguay maintains state policies to consolidate its position as a MICE destination in the region
Cristian Pos, Uruguay's National Director of Tourism, shared the country's vision at FIEXPO Latin America 2025, reaffirming its commitment to the MICE segment. He highlighted the role of infrastructure, tax incentives, the professionalization of the sector, and an international promotion strategy that seeks to expand markets and decentralize the event offering
What are Uruguay's objectives for this new edition of FIEXPO?
We come with the same expectations as always: to continue improving our ability to attract events, conferences, and meetings, and to continue positioning the country in this segment. We are accompanied by a significant delegation of operators, convention centers, associations, and companies from the MICE sector, which demonstrates the importance of this sector for Uruguayan tourism.
What policies are in place to attract events to the country?
We maintain long-standing state policies, such as the SOS Events program and tax benefits like the VAT exemption. We believe these measures position us well both in Latin America and internationally.
What other values distinguish Uruguay as a meeting destination?
In addition to modern infrastructure, Uruguay offers accessibility, short distances between destinations, and highly trained professionals. Key attributes include institutional stability, legal and general security, and a high quality of life, which inspire confidence in those who organize and attend events.
What are the country's main MICE hubs?
The largest concentration is in Montevideo, Maldonado, Canelones, Colonia, and also in Rivera. These are departments with excellent infrastructure: airports, highways, hotels, restaurants, and services. And we continue to promote the spread of this knowledge to other areas of the country.
Is there a strategy to integrate new destinations into this offering?
Yes, there's a global trend toward smaller, more luxurious events. That's why destinations like Arapey, with its high-end hotels and spa resorts, are ideal. There are many opportunities throughout the country for different types of meetings, and it's a segment where we still have room to grow.
What's next on the promotional agenda after FIEXPO?
We have a very active calendar. Together with the Uruguayan Chamber of Tourism, we will be in Chile, Brazil, and Argentina, and we're just returning from an event in Mexico. We will also participate in fairs such as FIT in Buenos Aires, Festuris in Gramado, and events in Rio and Recife, among others. This is a year of transition with changes in government and the definition of the new national budget, so we are strengthening our international promotion while we plan our path toward 2030.