Tourism is one of the most important and fastest growing sectors in the Slovenian economy. The Slovenian tourism industry contributes 13% of the GDP, directly or indirectly employs 12% of the active working population, and represents 40% of export services.
In 2020, the negative consequences of the COVID-19 virus strongly impacted the tourism activity in Slovenia and beyond. The gradual introduction of vaccinations is expected to help restore consumer confidence, contribute to reducing travel restrictions, and slowly stabilise travels in the coming year. The recovery of the activity will be gradual and long-term and international tourism is expected to return to 2019 levels within two and a half to four years.
The current invitation to tender by the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology for the proposal of the 2022–2028 Strategy for Sustainable Development of Slovenian Tourism is expected to build on the existing vision of a 5-star destination for green, active and healthy experiences. The Strategy will adequately address the consequences of the COVID-19 epidemic, while taking into account the sustainable development of tourism and raising of added value, both qualitatively and quantitatively, as the main objectives of the Strategy.