Sustainable Tourism Law

532 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM LAW the most vulnerable groups and it must be a useful instrument to produce an inclusive development that prioritises local communities and promotes the social use of tourist resources. Nowadays, fortunately it could be said that Sustainable Tourism is a tendency among travellers who are becoming aware of the importance of environmental protection and undertake responsible tourism, reducing the negative impact. Besides, it lets travellers know what they are consuming, who is favoured by their consumption and who is affected, therefore moving away fromTraditional Tourism. Argentina is working hard in the preservation of the environment, as well as in Sustainable Tourism issues, since the conservation of its natural areas is one of the greatest competitive advantages that the country has in the field of tourism. V. NATIONAL TOURISM LAW In Argentina, the tourist activity has increased since 2002. According to the INDEC (National Institute of Statistics and Census of the Argentine Republic) during 2004 a new record of international tourist arrivals was registered, reaching 3.3 million of tourists, 11.9% more than in 2003. This rise allowed the increase in foreign exchange earnings from USD 1942 million in 2003 to USD 2491 million in 2004. As a result of this situation (of positive economic impact) the tourist activity began to be seen as the new driver of the economy of the country and, therefore, as a State policy capable of generating economic growth, new jobs and attracting foreign investments. As a consequence, this activity needed to be regulated and the National Tourism Law was created. Law No. 25.997 establishes that ‘Tourism shall be declared of national interest as a socioeconomic, strategic and essential activity for the country development. The Tourist activity is a priority within State policies.’ In addition, this article also states that this law aims to ‘promote, develop and regulate the tourismactivity and resources’, incorporating the necessarymechanisms for the creation, conservation, protection and utilisation of resources and the national tourism attractions. It seeks to safeguard sustainable development and to improve the quality of life of the population. It also establishes the mechanisms for the participation, and consultation, between the private and public sectors. As regards its second article, it states the guiding principles of the law: