Maharashtra Sets Sights on Becoming a Global Hub for MICE Tourism

State Invites Global Organizers to Host Major Business Events

Maharashtra is stepping up its efforts to become a leading global destination for MICE tourism, inviting international event organizers, delegates and industry stakeholders to host major meetings, conferences, exhibitions and incentive events across the state.

The initiative is part of Maharashtra's broader tourism strategy under the Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024. The state is promoting its strong connectivity, modern venues, diverse destinations and growing hospitality infrastructure to attract high-value business events from India and around the world.

Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024 Supports Global MICE Growth

The latest push comes one year after Maharashtra introduced targeted fiscal and administrative measures under the Tourism Policy 2024 to strengthen the state's position in the MICE tourism market.

A key part of the strategy is the Maharashtra Convention Bureau, which was announced at IMEX Frankfurt in May 2025. The bureau has now become a fully operational platform designed to make it easier for event organizers to plan and conduct large-scale events in the state.

The bureau is based in Mumbai and works under the leadership of the Additional Chief Secretary of Tourism. It brings together government authorities, hospitality companies, logistics providers and other private sector partners to simplify the event planning process.

Maharashtra Convention Bureau Offers Single-Window Support

One of the main goals of the Maharashtra Convention Bureau is to provide organizers with a single point of facilitation for approvals, clearances and licensing requirements.

Through this approach, organizers can connect with relevant government departments and private sector partners through a coordinated system. The move is expected to reduce administrative challenges and make Maharashtra a more convenient choice for national and international business events.

The bureau is initially focusing on key destinations including Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar.

Business Tourism Can Boost Maharashtra's Wider Economy

MICE tourism can generate benefits well beyond conference halls and exhibition venues. Business travelers typically spend across hotels, airlines, restaurants, local transportation, entertainment and other tourism services.

Many business visitors also extend their trips for leisure, creating additional opportunities for local tourism businesses and destinations. This can help spread the economic benefits of major events across different parts of Maharashtra.

With its mix of metropolitan cities, heritage destinations, business centers and tourism attractions, the state is looking to use MICE tourism to support wider growth in the travel and hospitality sector.

Focus on Skilled Event Workforce and Industry Support

Maharashtra is also working to strengthen the skills of professionals involved in the events industry. Dedicated workforce certification programs have been introduced to help improve the capabilities of event personnel and create a stronger talent base for large international gatherings.

Along with workforce development, organizers can benefit from fiscal incentives available under the Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024. Single-window clearances are also being made available through the Department of Tourism to support smoother event planning.

Maharashtra Invites Global Events and Organizers

Maharashtra Tourism Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Khandare said the Maharashtra Convention Bureau is designed to give organizers a single point of facilitation while creating stronger cooperation between the government and the private sector.

He highlighted the state's connectivity, destinations, modern venues and supportive policy environment as key advantages for hosting global business events.

The state is now encouraging organizers from India and overseas to explore Maharashtra as a destination for future MICE events. With continued investment in infrastructure, workforce development and easier approvals, Maharashtra is positioning business tourism as an important part of its long-term tourism growth strategy.