Tunisia is a beautiful North African country that has been attracting tourists from all over the world for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. The country’s tourism industry has been growing steadily over the years, and it has become one of the major sources of revenue for the Tunisian economy. In this article, we will explore how much money Tunisia makes from tourism.
Tunisia’s Tourism Industry
Tunisia’s tourism industry is a significant contributor to the country’s economy. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the total contribution of travel and tourism to Tunisia’s GDP was 14.3% in 2019, which amounted to TND 10.4 billion (approximately USD 3.7 billion). This figure includes both direct contributions from tourism-related activities such as accommodation, transportation, and attractions, as well as indirect contributions such as employment and investment opportunities.
Tourist Arrivals in Tunisia
Tourism is a crucial sector in Tunisia, with millions of tourists visiting the country every year. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS), tourist arrivals in Tunisia reached 9 million in 2019, an increase of 13% compared to the previous year.
Top Tourist Markets
The majority of tourists who visit Tunisia come from Europe. France is the largest market for Tunisian tourism, followed by Germany and Russia. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Chinese tourists visiting Tunisia.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Tunisian Tourism
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on global travel and tourism industries, and Tunisia is no exception. The country closed its borders to international visitors in March 2020 to contain the spread of COVID-19. This closure had a significant impact on Tunisian tourism, with the number of tourist arrivals dropping by 64% in 2020 compared to the previous year.
Tourism Revenue in Tunisia
Tourism generates significant revenue for Tunisia. According to the INS, tourism revenue in 2019 was TND 4.8 billion (approximately USD 1.7 billion), which is a 42% increase compared to the previous year. This revenue includes money spent on accommodation, transportation, food and beverages, and other expenses.
Future of Tunisian Tourism
Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Tunisia’s tourism industry is expected to recover gradually in the coming years. The Tunisian government has implemented several measures to support the sector, such as financial aid for businesses and marketing campaigns to attract tourists back to the country.
Conclusion
Tunisia’s tourism industry is a vital part of its economy and contributes significantly to its GDP. The country has been attracting millions of tourists every year from all over the world. Although COVID-19 has had a severe impact on Tunisian tourism, the country is taking steps towards recovery and is optimistic about its future in this sector.