2008, an important year for the Tourism Industry in Peru

The tourism industry in Peru increased 12% in 2007; three times the average growth of 4% in the whole world. According to the vice-minister of tourism, in 2008 the industry will grow up to 15% due to various reasons that are exposing the country positively to the world, such as that Machu Picchu has been considered as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and the international summits that will be held in Peru in 2008. Among these events are: the V Latin American and the Caribbean – Europe Union Head of State and Government Summit, and the XVI Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit (APEC). Another event that may impact positively in the image of Peru is the U.S. and Peru Free-Trade Agreement recently singed by both countries in 2007. This year, the income coming from the tourism industry could exceed US$1, 700 million.