UN Tourism welcomes G20 Leaders recognition and strong support for tourism

At the G20 Summit in South Africa, leaders formally recognized the critical role of tourism in advancing shared prosperity and sustainability. This marks a significant step in placing tourism at the center of global economic and social development strategies.

Commitments in the Leaders’ Declaration:
- Promote innovation and investment in tourism.
- Enhance air connectivity, expand market access, and open new routes.
- Support digitalization of tourism start-ups and MSMEs.
- Unlock financing for sustainable tourism projects.
- Create opportunities for youth, women, vulnerable communities, and Indigenous Peoples.
- Integrate tourism into national development strategies.

UN Tourism’s Role:
- Served as Knowledge Partner to the South African G20 Presidency.
- Contributed to discussions at the Tourism Working Group and Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Mpumalanga.
- Highlighted priorities such as digital innovation, tourism financing, air connectivity, and resilience.

Economic Impact of Tourism in G20:
- Tourism accounts for 3.1% of total GDP across G20 economies.
- Represents 5% of all exports and 21% of service exports.
- G20 economies collectively represent around 70% of international tourism.

Leadership Recognition:
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili praised South Africa’s Presidency, congratulating President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister Patricia DeLille for their leadership in advancing tourism as a driver of inclusive growth.

Why It Matters
This recognition positions tourism as a strategic pillar for sustainable development, ensuring that innovation, connectivity, and inclusivity remain central to global recovery and growth. It also underscores Africa’s growing leadership in shaping international tourism policy.