World Food Travel Association

Serving as the global authority on food and beverage tourism, the World Food Travel Association (WFTA) has shaped the culinary travel industry since its origins in 2001. Established as a non-profit in 2003, the WFTA preserves and promotes culinary cultures through hospitality and tourism, actively safeguarding unique heritage by collaborating with local communities, artisanal producers, and businesses. The Association drives culinary placemaking – leveraging food and beverage for economic and community development – and conducts extensive research, including the "Food Travel Monitor." The WFTA provides professional certification for destinations, designating them "Culinary Capitals," and offers resources, knowledge, and training to professionals and organizations across more than 150 countries. Annually supporting nearly 200,000 professionals, the WFTA also pioneered the Global Culinary Travel Awards and the Food Tourism Industry Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing excellence. The organization champions diversity, inclusion, and eco-friendly practices, aiming to preserve culinary heritage for future generations and enhance destination brand equity.