The Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Mauritius hosted the Workshop on Nature-Based Tourism & Lessons Learned from COVID-19 from 3-5 May 2023. The workshop brought together policy-makers, tourism operators, academics, non-governmental organisations, and international partners to exchange knowledge and best practices on sustainable tourism development and post-pandemic recovery.

The workshop highlighted the role of nature-based tourism in promoting sustainability, resilience, socio-economic development, and environmental protection. Discussions focused on sustainable tourism tools and mechanisms, visitor management, effective marketing strategies, financing opportunities, and approaches to strengthen the tourism sector against future external shocks. 

Representatives from IORA Member States, Dialogue Partners, and the UNWTO participated in the event, reinforcing regional cooperation towards a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector.