Latvia's participation in the 'Michelin' guide is a topic of debate, with supporters touting its benefits for tourism marketing and opponents questioning the necessity of such expenditure.
The article discusses the contrasting opinions regarding Latvia's involvement in the 'Michelin' guide. JΔnis Jenzis, the head of the Latvian Restaurant Association, claims that this participation represents the best investment in the country's tourism marketing in the last two decades. He argues that being included in a prestigious guide will attract more tourists, showcasing Latvia's culinary talents and enhancing its global presence.
On the other hand, Henriks DanusΔviΔs, president of the Latvian Traders' Association, strongly opposes the expenditure on the 'Michelin' guide. He questions whether it is wise for the state to invest millions in a project that may not guarantee a tangible return. Instead, he believes that the government should focus on supporting local excellence brands as seen in countries like Belgium, France, and Spain, emphasizing the importance of celebrating regional culinary achievements over international accolades.
This debate underscores a broader discussion about the allocation of resources in promoting national tourism and fostering local businesses. As Latvia navigates its post-pandemic recovery, the decision to invest in international recognition through the 'Michelin' brand highlights the dichotomy between ambitions for global visibility and the need for sustainable support for domestic talent.
