GSTC at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) played a significant role at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, held on January 29, 2026, in Cebu, Philippines. The forum’s theme was “Navigating our tourism future, together”, marking its 45th edition and bringing together policymakers, tourism organizations, and stakeholders from across ASEAN and beyond.

Focus on Sustainability:
GSTC’s participation emphasized sustainability as a strategic pillar for tourism policy, investment, and resilience.

High-Level Panel on Sustainable Tourism:
- Randy Durband, GSTC CEO, opened the session with remarks and joined senior representatives in discussing how sustainability is being integrated into tourism planning.
- Topics included governance, policy alignment, and international frameworks to address environmental, social, and economic challenges.

Collaboration Across Sectors:
Panelists stressed the importance of cooperation between governments, industry, and destination stakeholders to ensure responsible and inclusive tourism growth.

Regional Cooperation:
The forum highlighted how ASEAN member states can work together to build more balanced and resilient tourism models.

Durband summed it up well: “Sustainable tourism requires long-term thinking, coordinated action, and alignment between all stakeholders.”

This event reinforced GSTC’s role in shaping international dialogue on sustainable tourism, alongside other recent initiatives like their Roundtable Report on Micro and Small Enterprises Certification and participation in European Tourism Week.