Kirill Masharsky
MINSK, 20 January (BelTA) – Following his introduction to the team, the new head of the National Tourism Agency, Kirill Masharsky, told journalists about the agency’s priorities, BelTA reports.
“We will place special emphasis on infrastructure, which is aligned with the “Tourism” state program for 2026-2030. This will include accommodation issues and increasing the number of rooms in hotels, sanatoriums, and other facilities,” said Kirill Masharsky. “It is very important for us to receive feedback from businesses operating in the industry and to build collaboration.”
Specialists are currently analyzing statistical data. Over the past six months, foundational work has been completed to update the regulatory framework, with new documents expanding the agency’s responsibilities. Tourism matters in the regions are now overseen by deputy heads of economy committees.
“The National Tourism Agency is a key player in the industry and coordinates the tourism policy,” explained Kirill Masharsky.
According to him, top priorities include making vacations in Belarus more comfortable, improving service quality, developing infrastructure at popular destinations and identifying new attractions. A key role is assigned to an integrated approach to spatial and territorial planning.
“Certain conditions will be created to facilitate the operations of small and medium-sized businesses in these areas. The program includes numerous measures related to the renovation and construction of facilities,” added Kirill Masharsky.
Attention will also be paid to promoting tourism potential. The agency plans to conduct an inventory of previously implemented projects, identify the most popular ones, and prepare proposals to increase their profitability.
“We will build upon everything that has been achieved. This foundation is invaluable,” noted the new agency head, adding that Belarusians have begun traveling more within the country as active leisure gains popularity.
The National Tourism Agency has been operating in its new status since 1 January. Its staff of 30 people are now engaged in two major lines of work: one department oversees inbound and domestic tourism, while the other focuses on investment, infrastructure, strategic planning, project promotion, and marketing. “This agency has been reinvented. It is now more focused on the economic component. We are building a vertical structure, recruiting people, and building a team. We understand that there is no time to waste: we need to get down to work immediately, so that the 2026-2030 state program will be fully implemented,” concluded Kirill Masharsky.
Regional tourist information centers will assist the National Tourism Agency in implementing its tasks. Their powers are being expanded, and both Belarusian citizens and foreign visitors will be able to receive a broader range of services from them.
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