What Is the Contribution of Travel and Tourism to the GDP of Our Country?

By Michael Ferguson

Travel and tourism play a significant role in the economic growth of many countries. It is one of the fastest-growing industries globally, contributing to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of countries in multiple ways.

The Contribution of Travel and Tourism to GDP

The contribution of travel and tourism to GDP is measured by adding up the total spending incurred by tourists within a country’s borders. This includes their expenditure on transportation, accommodation, food, recreation, and other activities.

According to recent statistics from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the travel and tourism industry contributed 10.4% to global GDP in 2019. In terms of employment, it generated over 330 million jobs worldwide, which accounts for one in ten jobs globally.

In our country alone, the travel and tourism industry contributes significantly to our economy. As per a report by the Ministry of Tourism, India’s contribution to GDP through tourism was approximately 9.2% in 2018. This sector also accounted for around 8% of total employment opportunities generated in India during that year.

The Positive Impact of Travel and Tourism on Our Economy

The travel and tourism industry has several positive impacts on our country’s economy:

  • Foreign Exchange Earnings: The tourism sector is one of the major sources of foreign exchange earnings for our country. According to the Ministry of Tourism report mentioned earlier, foreign exchange earnings from tourism stood at USD 28 billion in 2018.
  • Employment Generation: The industry generates vast employment opportunities across various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and recreation.
  • Boosts Local Businesses: The increase in tourist activities leads to an increase in demand for goods and services provided by local businesses such as handicrafts, souvenirs, and food items.
  • Promotes Cultural Exchange: When tourists visit our country, they get to experience the local culture, traditions, and customs. This helps in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the travel and tourism industry is a significant contributor to the GDP of our country. It generates employment opportunities, boosts local businesses, promotes cultural exchange, and earns foreign exchange. Therefore, it is essential to encourage and support this industry’s growth to help the country’s economy prosper.