France is a country that is renowned for its beautiful cities, picturesque countryside, and rich cultural heritage. The country’s tourism industry is one of the largest in the world and has a significant impact on its economy. In this article, we will explore what percentage of France’s economy is attributed to tourism.
What Is Tourism?
Tourism can be defined as the activity of individuals traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for leisure, business, or other purposes. It includes various activities such as sightseeing, visiting historical monuments, attending cultural events, and participating in outdoor adventures.
Tourism in France
France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Millions of tourists visit France every year to experience its rich culture, history, food, art, and architecture. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), France was the most visited country in the world in 2018 with 89 million international visitors.
The Contribution of Tourism to France’s Economy
Tourism plays a vital role in France’s economy. It contributes significantly to the country’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and provides employment opportunities for millions of people. According to a report by The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), travel and tourism contributed €198.3 billion (8.7% of GDP) to France’s economy in 2019.
Direct vs Indirect Contribution
The contribution of tourism to France’s economy can be divided into two categories: direct and indirect contribution.
Direct Contribution: This refers to the money spent by tourists during their stay in France on accommodation, food and beverage services, transportation services, attractions, entertainment activities, and other tourism-related services.
Indirect Contribution: This refers to the money spent by businesses that provide goods or services related to tourism such as food suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and construction companies.
According to the same report by the WTTC, the direct contribution of tourism to France’s GDP was €67.4 billion (2.9% of GDP) in 2019, while the indirect contribution was €130.9 billion (5.8% of GDP).
Employment Opportunities
Tourism also provides employment opportunities for millions of people in France. According to the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the tourism sector employs around 2 million people directly and indirectly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourism is a significant contributor to France’s economy. It not only provides employment opportunities but also contributes significantly to the country’s GDP.
The direct and indirect contribution of tourism to France’s GDP was 2.9% and 5.8%, respectively, in 2019 according to a report by the WTTC. With its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, it is no surprise that France continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.