WTTC and ICC unite to strengthen the voice and growth of millions of Travel and Tourism SMEs worldwide
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen the voice, growth and competitiveness of millions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the global Travel & Tourism sector.
Partnership Overview
- Organisations: World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) + International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
- Goal: Strengthen the voice, growth, and competitiveness of millions of SMEs in the global Travel & Tourism sector.
- Reach: ICC’s network spans 45 million businesses in 170+ countries, combined with WTTC’s industry expertise and research.
Why SMEs Matter
- SMEs make up over 85% of Travel & Tourism businesses worldwide.
- They drive job creation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and local development.
- Challenges include: fragmented regulation, skills shortages, limited market access, financing difficulties, digital barriers, visa restrictions, and connectivity issues.
What the MOU Will Do
- Identify and advocate to remove barriers holding SMEs back.
- Share research, insights, and business intelligence.
- Provide SMEs with practical tools, guidance, and opportunities.
- Convene public and private leaders to shape better policy.
- Connect SMEs to ICC’s wider international business networks.
Leadership Voices
- Gloria Guevara (WTTC CEO): SMEs are the heart of tourism, spreading benefits to communities. This partnership takes evidence directly to governments to unlock investment and jobs.
- John W.H. Denton AO (ICC Secretary General): Travel & Tourism is one of the world’s most connected industries. Supporting SMEs is both an economic and strategic imperative.
Strategic Impact
This collaboration aims to ensure national and international policy reflects SME needs, boosting competitiveness and sustainability across the sector. It’s about making sure the smallest players in tourism can thrive alongside global giants.
