How Much Has Global Tourism Decreased?

By Anna Duncan

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the global tourism industry has experienced an unprecedented decline in the wake of COVID-19. With travel restrictions and border closures, the sector has been hit hard, leaving millions of people unemployed, businesses closed, and destinations empty.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Global Tourism

The pandemic has affected every aspect of the tourism industry, from airlines and hotels to tour operators and small businesses. According to UNWTO’s latest World Tourism Barometer report, international tourist arrivals declined by 72% globally in 2020 compared to 2019. This translates to a loss of over one billion international arrivals and approximately $1.3 trillion in export revenue from tourism.

Regional Variations in Tourism Decline

While all regions have been affected by the pandemic, some have been hit harder than others. The Americas saw a decline of 69% in international tourist arrivals while Europe witnessed a drop of 70%.

Asia and the Pacific recorded a decrease of 84%, while Africa saw a decline of 69%. However, despite these variations, no country or region was spared from the impact.

The Unprecedented Losses for Tourism Industry

The impact on businesses and individuals working in the tourism industry has been devastating. Many businesses have had to close down permanently due to lack of revenue. In countries where tourism is a major source of income for local communities, such as Thailand or Bali, people who rely on tourism for their livelihoods have been particularly hard hit.

Recovery Plans for Global Tourism

To address the crisis facing global tourism, many governments and organizations have developed recovery plans aimed at restoring confidence among travelers and reviving the industry. Some examples include promotional campaigns designed to attract domestic tourists or digital solutions that allow for contactless check-ins or virtual tours.

The Future of Global Tourism

The path to recovery for the tourism industry remains uncertain. While vaccination rollouts offer some hope, the emergence of new variants and the slow pace of vaccine distribution in some parts of the world means that travel restrictions are likely to remain in place for some time.

In conclusion, the impact of COVID-19 on global tourism has been severe, with unprecedented losses for businesses and individuals. Recovery plans are being implemented, but it is unclear when the industry will fully recover, and what it will look like when it does.