AP invites Global Investments in Theme Parks

Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh invited investors to explore opportunities in the state’s rapidly evolving tourism sector while participating as the Chief Guest at the 24th Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) Expo in Mumbai.

Addressing industry leaders, investors and representatives of amusement and entertainment companies, the minister said the Andhra Pradesh government is committed to transforming the state into a major tourism and entertainment destination. He noted that tourism in Andhra Pradesh has been granted industry status, and the recently introduced AP Tourism Policy 2024-29 offers a wide range of incentives to attract investments.

Durgesh said the state government is actively encouraging the establishment of amusement parks, theme parks, water parks and adventure tourism zones. He highlighted that Andhra Pradesh offers vast opportunities for the development of international-standard theme parks, waterfront attractions and entertainment hubs due to its long coastline, cultural heritage and growing urban infrastructure.

The minister stated that the coalition government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, has prepared a long-term roadmap titled “Swarna Andhra Tourism Vision 2047.” The vision aims to strengthen the tourism economy by creating world-class infrastructure and attracting global investors.

Durgesh pointed out that the government has introduced a simplified land allocation policy for tourism projects such as hotels, resorts and theme parks. For projects with investments exceeding ₹50 crore, land allocation will be facilitated through the State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB). He also revealed that the state has already attracted tourism investments worth ₹18,448 crore through 102 agreements signed over the past year, demonstrating growing investor interest in the sector.

The minister specifically invited investors to establish mega amusement parks in Amaravati, Visakhapatnam and Tirupati. He described Amaravati as a greenfield capital city offering enormous development potential, Visakhapatnam as a premier coastal tourism hub, and Tirupati as a high-potential destination for family entertainment due to the large influx of pilgrims visiting the temple city.

Durgesh also emphasized the potential for smaller amusement parks in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, stating that such projects require relatively lower investment, can be completed quickly and provide faster returns for investors while meeting the recreational needs of local populations.

Highlighting the global growth of the entertainment industry, the minister said the amusement sector in India is expanding at nearly 15 percent annually and is expected to reach ₹25,000 crore by 2030. Currently, the country has around 300 amusement parks and nearly 2,500 indoor entertainment centers, indicating strong market demand.