Record-Breaking Global Tourism: $2.1 Trillion Spending Forecasted for 2025
The global travel and tourism industry is set to scale unprecedented heights in 2025. International visitor spending is projected to hit a record-breaking $2.1 trillion. This data comes from the latest research conducted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The figure represents a $164 billion increase from the previous peak of $1.9 trillion achieved in 2019.
The industry’s total economic contribution is anticipated to reach a staggering $11.7 trillion. This accounts for 10.3% of the global GDP, setting a new all-time high. Furthermore, employment within travel and tourism is predicted to grow by 14 million jobs, reaching a total of 371 million worldwide. This number surpasses the entire population of the United States.
“People are continuing to prioritize travel. That’s a powerful vote of confidence in our sector,” says Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO.
However, the recovery remains uneven across various markets. The US and China are experiencing slower growth. In contrast, destinations like Saudi Arabia, planning to invest $800 billion in tourism by 2030, are setting new benchmarks. European leaders, France and Spain, continue to drive the continent’s resurgence through strategic investment and global appeal.
Source: World Travel & Tourism Council