The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL) could not make it to World Travel Mart (WTM) 2008 at London. Now, its chances of taking part in ITB Berlin 2009, which will take place from March 11-15 this year, are also remote.

Sources in TCGL say the corporation lost the opportunity to represent Gujarat at the WTM last November because of internal strife.

There was so much bickering among the officials over the issue of attending the event in London that the corporation had to finally shelve the idea to represent the state at the event.

TCGL insiders say that there is no product worth selling at ITB Berlin, and therefore, even if participation is ensured, the Corporation will draw a blank.

“This clearly means Gujarat will lose on doing propaganda for its tourist sites, and eventually its revenue generating potential will decline,” said sources.

Both MTW London and ITB Berlin are major travel trade events held annually, and Gujarat had been taking part in them, they said.

According to them, taking part in such international events involve a lengthy process, which is yet to be completed.

According to sources, Gujarat has to first develop products worth showcasing at such global events.

Besides, TCGL does not have resources to organise standalone shows abroad, and the only way to reach out is by joining such events.

The officials say that barring one or two, there is no standalone destination. In addition, there is hardly anything to hold visitors’ attention for a longer stay, they add.

When contacted, TCGL managing director Anup Shukla said he had joined the organisation recently.