Global travel and tourism spend is set to reach unprecedented heights in 2025, with international visitor spending expected to hit a record-breaking US$2,1trn (R40,8trn) – a 10,5% increase over pre-pandemic levels, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) latest Economic Impact Research.
This is a US$164 billion (R3,1trn) increase from the previous high of U$1,9 trillion (R36,9trn) recorded in 2019, marking a major milestone in the industry’s recovery.
“This historic level of spending shows that people are continuing to prioritise travel,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO. “That’s a powerful vote of confidence in our sector and a sign of its enduring strength.”
The global travel and tourism sector is expected to contribute a record US$11,7trn (R227,4trn) to the global economy in 2025, accounting for 10,3% of global GDP.
The sector is also poised to support 371 million jobs worldwide – an increase of 14 million compared with the previous year. This number exceeds the population of the US.
However, Simpson cautioned that the recovery remained uneven. “While some countries and regions produce record-breaking numbers, other large economies are plateauing,” she said.
Looking to 2035
WTTC forecasts continued growth for the next decade. By 2035, the sector is expected to generate US$16,5 trillion (R320,4trn), making up 11,5% of global GDP.
Jobs are projected to rise to more than 460 million, or one in eight globally. International tourism spend is expected to grow to US$2,9trn (R56,3trn), with a compound annual growth rate of 3,4%, while domestic travel spending is anticipated to reach US$7,7trn (R149,3trn).
However, the WTTC warns of the need for sustainability alongside economic growth. The Council’s latest Environmental Social Research shows the sector was responsible for 6,5% of global emissions in 2023 – highlighting the urgent need for green innovation as the industry scales up.
