Global Travel and Tourism Growth to Outpace Wider Economy by 1.5 Times Over the Next Decade

Global Travel & Tourism is forecast to continue outpacing wider economic growth in 2026, with the sector expected to contribute $12TN to the world economy, accounting for 9.9% of global GDP, according to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council, sponsored by Chase Travel, Lead Research Partner.

Global Outlook
- Contribution: $12 trillion to the world economy in 2026 (9.9% of global GDP)
- Jobs: 376 million supported worldwide (1 in 9 jobs globally)
- Growth Rate: 3.2% in 2026, ahead of wider global economic growth at 2.4%
- Next Decade: Sector GDP forecast to grow at 3.6% annually — 1.5 times faster than the wider economy (2.4%)
- Jobs Impact: Nearly 89 million new jobs expected, ~⅓ of all new jobs globally

Drivers of Growth
- Investment in smart infrastructure, digital innovation, sustainable destination management, skills development, and connectivity
- Growing role of AI and new technologies in enhancing traveler experience and workforce development

Europe Focus
- Travel & Tourism GDP growth: 3.6% in 2026 (vs. 1% wider economy)
- International visitor spending: +7.1% in 2026 (global average +3.7%)
- Southern Europe leading momentum:
- Spain: 3.7% growth, visitor spending +5.3%
- Italy: 3.8% growth (strongest among major markets)
- Türkiye: 3.7% growth
- Spain remains a powerhouse: 96.8M international arrivals in 2025, €115.1BN visitor spending — Europe’s top destination by spending, 3rd globally

WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara
“Travel & Tourism continues to prove its resilience across Europe and remains one of the region’s most important economic growth engines… Countries such as Spain, Italy, France and Türkiye are showing what is possible when governments recognise the strategic value of Travel & Tourism.”

This report underscores how Travel & Tourism is not just recovering but outpacing global economic growth, positioning itself as a critical driver of jobs and investment worldwide.