WTTC Confirm Travel & Tourism Industry as the World’s Fastest Growing Sector

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Chase Travel, Lead Research Partner, reveal that the travel and tourism industry has significantly outpaced global economic growth in 2025.

According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), Travel & Tourism’s global GDP contribution accounted for 9.8% of the global economy.

The sector’s growth exceeded overall global economic growth by almost half, highlighting it’s role as a primary factor in global expansion. The industry also accounted for 1 in 3 new jobs created globally.

This performance confirms Travel & Tourism not only as a driver of recovery, but as a leading factor in shaping the future of the global economy.

Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC, said:

“Despite the global challenges of 2025, the Travel & Tourism sector had its best year ever, which demonstrates its resilience. In a truly record-breaking year, the sector contributed an unprecedented US$11.6 trillion to the global economy. This exceptional performance underscores not only its economic strength, but its resilience and ability to outpace wider global growth.

“The scale of global travel is equally remarkable. With 1.54 billion international overnight arrivals this year — equivalent to 4.2 million people travelling every day. Travel & Tourism continues to connect the world at an extraordinary pace, surpassing both last year’s levels and pre-pandemic benchmarks.

“This is a defining moment. Governments around the world must recognise Travel & Tourism as a strategic priority and continue enabling policies that support growth, investment, and connectivity.”