The World Travel & Tourism Council says the global tourism sector is edging ever closer to its pre-pandemic 2019 peak.
The WTTC 2023 Economic Impact Research shows the recovery will reach 95% this year with the sector forecast to reach $9.5 trillion, just 5% below 2019 pre-pandemic levels.
According to to the report 34 countries have already exceeded 2019 levels.
The research shows that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and prolonged travel restrictions had a significant impact on the global recovery however with China reopening in January, it predicts a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels by next year.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The global tourism sector continues to recover at pace, demonstrating its resilience and the enduring desire to travel.”
“By the end of the year, the sector’s contribution will be within touching distance of the 2019 peak.”
