New York City has set a target of attracting 10 million more visitors a year by the end of 2021.
The target of 67 million annual arrivals emerged at tourism body NYC & Company’s annual meeting of more than 800 tourism and hospitality industry members.
NYC & Company achieved its goal of 55 million visitors one year ahead of its 2015 schedule by attracting a record 56.4 million visitors last year.
Visitor spending resulted in an estimated $61.3 billion in economic impact and $3.7 billion in city tax revenues, as well as supporting 359,000 tourism related jobs.
Arrivals this year are projected to rise 3% to 58.1 million.
Of the 67 million visitors expected by the end of 2021, 16 million are forecast to come from international markets while 51 million would originate from US/domestic markets.
A particular focus will be on emerging markets such as China, India, Brazil and Spanish-speaking Latin America.
NYC & Company president and chief executive, Fred Dixon, said: “Travel and tourism are a cornerstone of the city’s economy – our hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers, Broadway theatres, performing arts, five-borough cultural organisations and transportation providers continue to draw new and repeat visitors each year.
“I am confident we will reach our new target of 67 million annual visitors by 2021, further spreading tourism to every corner of our city, drawing visitors during slower periods, and showcasing the attractive new product in all five boroughs.”