The Minister of Tourism, Commerce and Consumption, Javier Hurtado, has stressed the importance of tourism management in Euskadi during an interview on “Egunon Bizkaia” on Radio Popular – Herri Irratia. The minister highlighted the close and direct contact maintained with the sector since the start of the legislative term, stating they have a clear roadmap justifying a positive evaluation.
Hurtado stated that "2026 will be a turning point for tourism policies in Euskadi". He recalled that tourism generates 110,000 jobs and makes a significant contribution to the economy, reiterating the idea that "we must govern tourism". To this end, three key measures have been implemented: a new draft tourism law has been developed, a tax on tourist stays has been introduced, and a specific fund of 2 million euros has been created to support the sector. Furthermore, a pact for sustainable tourism has been signed with the three provincial councils to enhance inter-institutional coordination.
In the realm of commerce, the minister highlighted the budget increase and direct aid to the sector, such as the Commercial Establishment Modernization aid (MEC). He also mentioned the signing of a protocol with sector associations in Bizkaia and the Bilbao City Council to boost local commerce and entrepreneurship. Fifty Commercial Assistance Points have been created and strengthened, and projects are being financed through the Commercial Innovation Hub. "We want 2027 to be a turning point in the commercial world, and we are beginning to draft a new law on commercial activity", he added.
Finally, regarding consumption, the minister recalled the approval of the Law on the Statute of Consumers and Users in the previous term and the ongoing work on its regulatory development. He also emphasized the work carried out by Kontsumobide in protecting consumers, noting that in 2025, over 41,300 inquiries and 27,200 complaints were registered in Euskadi through Kontsumobide, Municipal Consumer Information Offices (OMIC), and consumer associations.
