How Big Is the Travel and Tourism Industry?

By Michael Ferguson

The travel and tourism industry is one of the largest and most diverse industries in the world. It encompasses a wide range of businesses that cater to the needs and desires of travelers, from airlines, hotels, and restaurants to tour operators, travel agents, and cruise lines. Let’s dive into the numbers to see just how big this industry really is.

Global Tourism Statistics

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals reached 1.4 billion in 2018. This represents a 6% increase from the previous year and is expected to continue growing at a steady pace in the coming years.

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in 2018:

  • France – 89.4 million visitors
  • Spain – 82.8 million visitors
  • United States – 79.6 million visitors
  • China – 61.5 million visitors
  • Italy – 60.3 million visitors
  • Turkey – 46.1 million visitors
  • Mexico – 41.4 million visitors
  • Germany – 38.9 million visitors
  • Thailand – 38.3 million visitors
  • United Kingdom – 36.3 million visitors

The Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism

The travel and tourism industry not only provides jobs for millions of people around the world but also generates significant revenue for many countries.

In fact, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), travel and tourism contributed USD8.8 trillion to the global economy in 2018, representing a staggering 10.4% of global GDP.

Top 10 Countries by Travel and Tourism GDP:

  • United States – USD1.7 trillion
  • China – USD1.6 trillion
  • Japan – USD596 billion
  • Germany – USD354 billion
  • United Kingdom – USD261 billion
  • France – USD259 billion
  • India – USD240 billion
  • Brazil – USD183 billion
  • Canada – USD153 billion
  • Australia – USD138 billion

The Future of Travel and Tourism

As technology continues to advance and the world becomes more connected, the travel and tourism industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years.

According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global travel and tourism market is expected to reach USD13,556.4 billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.6% from 2017 to 2023.

The Rise of Sustainable Tourism:

One trend that is expected to gain momentum in the coming years is sustainable tourism. As travelers become more conscious of their impact on the environment and local communities, there has been a shift towards eco-friendly travel options such as eco-tourism, responsible tourism, and voluntourism.

Digital Disruption:

Another trend that is already transforming the travel industry is digital disruption. From online booking platforms like Expedia and Airbnb to virtual reality experiences that allow travelers to preview destinations before they visit, technology is changing the way we plan and experience travel.

In conclusion, the travel and tourism industry plays a vital role in our global economy, providing jobs for millions of people and generating significant revenue for many countries. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how new technologies and changing consumer behavior will shape its future.