UNWTO reports growth in tourism sector

THE World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has reported a 4.5% growth rate in 2006, exceeding the forecast rate of 4.1% for the year. The positive results of emerging markets and their links to economic progress were one of the main features of the year, with Africa leading the way with an 8.1% growth rate. Asia and the Pacific maintained a 7.6% growth rate and Europe performed on target with 4%. UNWTO predicts that in 2007 the global economy will maintain last year’s growth rate with a 4% increase in international tourist arrivals. Tessa Blane (tessab@nowmedia.co.za)