IGCAT was honoured to take part in the 40th anniversary celebration of Catalan tourism, organised by the Agència Catalana de Turisme (ACT) and held in the framework of Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy 2025.
The event opened with reflections from President Illa, highlighting this year’s significant growth in tourism while emphasising the importance of ensuring that this success translates into better tourism—more sustainable, more responsible, and more beneficial for local residents.
A central roundtable, “L’economia del visitant, els motors del nou turisme”, gathered influential voices from the tourism, cultural and gastronomic sectors. Among them, Mateu Casañas, chef of the internationally acclaimed restaurant Disfrutar, reminded the audience that gastronomy is the culture of the region. His message resonated deeply with IGCAT’s mission, underscoring how local food traditions, creativity, and identity are essential pillars in building a richer and more respectful visitor economy.
IGCAT was represented by President Dr. Diane Dodd, and Ramon Sentmartí, IGCAT Board Member, as well as co-promotor for Catalonia World Region of Gastronomy. Ramon contributed to the ongoing dialogue about how gastronomy can drive sustainable regional development and foster meaningful connections between visitors and local communities.
As Catalonia closes its year as World Region of Gastronomy 2025, the celebration marked a meaningful step forward to regenerative tourism. It highlighted the collective commitment to protecting cultural heritage, promoting food diversity, and supporting tourism models that enhance – not compromise – the wellbeing of residents.
A memorable milestone and a powerful invitation to continue working toward a more sustainable and culturally grounded future for Catalan tourism.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
World Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Foodie Websites and the international Food Film Menu.
