The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) — the voice of the global business travel industry — has announced the formation of a GBTA Russia chapter.

The development of GBTA Russia means that the association now has activity and membership in all BRIC regions for the first time.

The launch of GBTA in this region will be supported by an Allied Leadership Advisory Board, which will be comprised of representatives from Star Alliance, Continent Express and Marriott International.

GBTA and the Allied Leadership will announce details of the business travel buyers chosen to lead the GBTA region as its Advisory Board and Regional President at a launch event, planned for 8th April at the Marriott Grand in Moscow.

GBTA’s senior vice president of global operations, Paul Tilstone, said about the development: “GBTA is thrilled to be expanding our global footprint to Russia. 

“Russia is becoming an important and exciting travel management arena. 

“Establishing this region will allow us to work closely with Russian travel professionals, adding value through our education and advocacy while connecting them with their peers throughout the world.”

GBTA Russia will announce its schedule of activity at the formal launch event in Moscow on April 8th.