Tourism state regulation of the Republic of Mari El: key problems and ways to overcome them

Over the past fifteen years, the tourism industry in Russia has received active attention from the Government of the Russian Federation, as it is one of the fastestgrowing economy sectors, focused on the mass production, acquisition, and service consumption, job creation, and the promotion and development of underdeveloped regions of the Russian Federation. One of the global goals for tourism development is to increase the tourism industry’s contribution to Russia’s gross domestic product. Accordingly, competent government regulation of the tourism industry should ensure the achievement of this goal. The Mari El Republic is certainly no exception, as this region of the Russian Federation sees tourism actively developing and receiving attention. This article examines the current state of the tourism sector in the Mari El Republic and identifies key issues affecting its functioning. It examines factors negatively impacting tourism development in the region and proposes possible ways to improve government regulation to improve the quality of services provided and attract more tourists. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to tourism development in the Mari El Republic.