Montevideo climbs global rankings in specific sector: 'It measures up equally with San Francisco'

Montevideo has made a significant leap in the competitive world of meetings tourism, climbing 35 places in the annual global ranking by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). The capital city now stands at 60th worldwide and 12th in the Americas, solidifying its position among the top cities for hosting international association meetings.

The ICCA report, a key reference for the industry, evaluates over 1,600 cities based on the number of international association meetings that adhere to strict criteria regarding rotation and scale. Montevideo's advancement is attributed to both the volume of events secured and its capacity to meet the rigorous technical requirements audited by the association. These include meetings rotating among at least three countries, a minimum of 50 participants, and a defined frequency, ensuring significant economic impact and medium-term returns.

This rise in the rankings places Montevideo alongside established continental hubs like Buenos Aires, Montreal, Santiago, and Mexico City. It also bolsters the city's international profile, which has recently been recognized in other studies for its high quality of life, relative safety, and institutional stability, factors crucial for event organizers when selecting host cities.

The success reflects Montevideo's structured approach to attracting events, developing specialized infrastructure, and consolidating dedicated technical teams for market intelligence. This strategic focus allows the city to compete effectively on the global stage, demonstrating its capability to host significant international gatherings.