WTTC Calls for Stronger Public-Private Collaboration to Build a More Resilient Tourism Sector

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) urged governments and the private sector to work more closely together to strengthen the resilience and long-term sustainability of global tourism.

Address at WTM London Ministers' Summit
- WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara spoke at the 20th anniversary of the WTM London Ministers' Summit.
- The event brought together more than 50 tourism ministers and senior government representatives under the theme "Strengthening Tourism for a Resilient Future."

Tourism's Economic Impact
- In 2025, Travel & Tourism contributed a record US$11.6 trillion to the global economy.
- Represented 9.8% of global GDP.
- Supported 366 million jobs worldwide, equivalent to one in every nine jobs.

WTTC's Eight Strategic Priorities
- Enable seamless travel through digital standards and biometrics.
- Improve destination management and address overcrowding.
- Advance climate and environmental sustainability.
- Leverage emerging technologies such as AI and robotics.
- Strengthen crisis preparedness, management and recovery.
- Expand global connectivity and new travel corridors.
- Support workforce development and talent mobility.
- Encourage policies that drive investment and growth.

Importance of Crisis Readiness
- WTTC's research covering more than 100 global crises, including 9/11, the financial crisis and COVID-19, shows Travel & Tourism has consistently demonstrated resilience.
- Guevara emphasized that public-private partnerships should be established before crises occur to enable faster and more effective responses.

Outlook for 2026
- WTTC forecasts the sector will contribute US$11.9 trillion to global GDP in 2026.
- International arrivals are expected to increase by 29.8 million travelers, representing 1.9% annual growth.

Gloria Guevara's Message
- Strong collaboration between governments and businesses can help the sector anticipate challenges rather than simply react to them.
- Future growth should protect natural and cultural assets, benefit local communities, and create long-term value for destinations.

Industry Participation
- The summit featured leading industry figures from companies including:
- Grupo Puntacana
- Millat Group
- MSC
- Visa Government Solutions
- Discussions focused on strengthening the resilience, competitiveness and sustainable growth of the global Travel & Tourism sector.

Why It Matters
- The summit highlighted that sustainable tourism growth depends on preparedness, partnership and coordinated action.
- Its 20th anniversary marked two decades of collaboration between public and private sector leaders shaping the future of global travel and tourism.