Strong travel and tourism growth projected this year but sector recovery ‘uneven’  

Global travel and tourism is projected to grow strongly this year with travellers expected to spend more than ever before despite a backdrop of economic uncertainty.

 

International visitor spending is forecast to reach an historic $2.1 trillion in 2025, surpassing the previous pre-pandemic high of $1.9 trillion in 2019 by $164 billion.

 

The industry is expected to contribute a record $11.7 trillion to the global economy, accounting for 10.3% of global GDP.

 

Jobs around the world supported by the sector are expected to grow by 14 million to reach 371 million worldwide, more than the population of the US.

 

The predictions come in 2025 economic impact research by the  World Travel & Tourism Council.

 

However, it cautioned growth has slowed in a number of major markets such as the US, China and Germany,

 

International visitor spend in the US remained “significantly below” 2019 levels in 2024 and is not expected to fully recover this year. 

 

In China, while international spending was above pre-pandemic levels last year, growth is expected to slow sharply in 2025.

 

By contrast, European countries such as France and Spain, the world’s top two destinations in terms of visitor numbers, continue to lead the region’s resurgence, powered by smart investment and global appeal.

 

Other key markets such as Saudi Arabia, which will inject $800 billion into the sector by 2030, is ahead of the curve and setting new benchmarks. 

 

Travel and tourism contributed 10% of the world’s economy to reach $10.9 trillion last year - an 8.5% increase on 2023, and 6% above the previous peak of 2019.

 

The workforce grew 6.2% to reach 357 million, accounting for one in 10 jobs around the world.

 

International spending also increased by almost 12%, to $1.87 trillion and domestic spending grew 5.4% to $5.3 trillion.

 

The WTTC forecasts that travel and tourism will inject $16.5 trillion into the global economy by 2035, accounting for 11.5% of global GDP - representing a decade-long growth rate of 3.5% a year, outpacing the wider economy’s 2.5%.

 

The number of jobs in the sector is expected to reach more than 460 million.

 

International spending is anticipated to reach $2.9 trillion, with domestic spending will grow at a similar rate to reach $7.7 trillion.

 

WTTC president and chief executive Julia Simpson said: “People are continuing to prioritise travel. That’s a powerful vote of confidence in our sector and a sign of its enduring strength.

 

“But while the global picture in travel and tourism is strong, the recovery remains uneven. Whilst some countries and regions are producing record-breaking numbers, other large economies are plateauing.”