Almaty, Apr 23: Goa Tourism has made a compelling statement on the global stage at the inauguration of KITF 2026 (Kazakhstan International Tourism Fair), where Mr. Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, positioned Goa as a future-ready, high value, global destination in the presence of high-profile stakeholders – highlighting Goa’s commitment towards innovation, sustainability and strategic international partnerships, especially with partner countries like Kazakhstan. This is the 26th edition of KITF held every year at Almaty, Kazakhstan.
In his keynote address Mr. Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, stated,
“Goa is not just a destination—it’s a feeling, an experience. With a 104-kilometre coastline along the Arabian Sea, it is home to some of India’s most vibrant and accessible beaches. Yet, Goa offers far more than its shores. We aim to showcase the very best of Goa to the people of Kazakhstan. Today, Kazakhstan is well connected to India through Air Astana, with direct flights to Mumbai and Delhi, and onward direct connectivity to Goa. We are also in advanced talks for establishing more chartered flights from Almaty and Astana to Goa via FlyArystan and SCAT Airlines.”
Goa’s participation at KITF 2026 marks a strategic step in expanding our presence in markets like Kazakhstan, attracting travellers seeking meaningful, high-quality experiences. This partnership reflects Goa’s commitment to regenerative tourism, cultural authenticity, and sustainable growth.
Post the inaugural address, the delegation moved towards inaugurating the Goa Pavilion at KITF 2026. The Pavilion was inaugurated by Mr. Smagulov Olzhas Mukhtarovich, Deputy Akim of Almaty City in the presence of H. E Mr. Y K Sailas Thangal, Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Mr. Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Kapashev Aidyn Boranbayevich, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Industry Committee, Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gazizov Talgat Zhanatovich, Chairman of the Management Board, Kazakh Tourism National Company JSC, Edward Stroon, Chief Executive Officer, ICA Group and other important delegates.
The Goa Pavilion has been designed to focus on the state’s evolving tourism narrative—one that moves beyond sun-and-sand to immersive cultural experiences, hinterland exploration, wellness retreats, and regenerative tourism practices. KITF draws leading tourism destinations from around the world like South Korea, Egypt, Malaysia, Romania, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Belarus, Cyprus, China etc.
The Pavilion also serves as a dynamic platform to engage with travel trade stakeholders, media, and potential investors from Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region. With a strong focus on strengthening bilateral tourism ties, Goa aims to tap into Kazakhstan’s rapidly growing outbound travel market.
The Goa Pavilion features:
- Curated showcases of Goa’s hinterland destinations, including waterfalls, forests, and heritage villages
- Promotion of wellness tourism, homestays, and eco-conscious travel offerings
- Culinary experiences highlighting authentic Goan cuisine
- B2B meetings aimed at strengthening travel partnerships and improving connectivity
Goa Tourism also emphasized its efforts in enhancing international accessibility and fostering aviation partnerships to facilitate seamless travel between Goa and Central Asia.
Through its participation at KITF 2026, Goa aims to:
- Strengthen bilateral tourism flows between Goa and Kazakhstan
- Promote charter and direct travel opportunities
- Engage with tour operators, travel trade, and media
- Highlight Goa’s premium, experiential, and sustainable tourism offerings
Goa Tourism will also be hosting a series of B2B meetings, cultural presentations, and networking engagements during the event to deepen trade relationships.
