The latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) shows the sector accounted for 9.8% of global GDP, with growth of 4.1% compared to the global economy’s 2.8%. The figures reinforce Travel & Tourism’s position as one of the most dynamic drivers of global economic activity.
Employment impact also reached historic levels, with the industry supporting 366 million jobs worldwide in 2025—equivalent to 10.9% of total global employment. The sector also contributed one in every three new jobs created globally during the year, underscoring its central role in job creation and livelihoods across regions.
WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara described the performance as a defining moment for the sector, noting that despite global economic pressures, Travel & Tourism recorded its strongest year ever. She highlighted the scale of global mobility, with 1.54 billion international overnight arrivals recorded in 2025—an average of 4.2 million travellers each day—surpassing both pre-pandemic levels and the previous year’s figures.
According to her, the results reflect not only resilience but also a structural strengthening of the sector’s global importance. She further called on governments to prioritise Travel & Tourism as a strategic sector capable of driving sustained economic growth, investment, and connectivity.
Regional divide: Asia-Pacific leads growth while North America slows
The report highlights a widening regional performance gap. The Asia-Pacific region recorded the strongest growth globally, with Travel & Tourism GDP rising 8.1% to US$3.29 trillion. The expansion was driven by sustained reopening momentum, rising international demand, and improved regional connectivity.
In contrast, North America posted significantly slower growth of 1.0%, reaching US$3.05 trillion in Travel & Tourism GDP. The report attributes the weaker performance to challenges in international visitor recovery and more mature market conditions compared to faster-growing regions.
Industry observers say the divergence reflects broader differences in policy support, investment levels, and cross-border travel dynamics across global markets.
Chase Travel CEO Jason Wynn said the current phase reflects a reacceleration in global travel demand, with consumers increasingly prioritising meaningful experiences and more deliberate planning.
He noted, however, that recovery remains uneven across regions, shaped by affordability constraints and capacity limitations. Wynn emphasised the need for improved end-to-end travel experiences, greater accessibility, and more flexible systems to support sustained growth.
WTTC stated that it will continue collaborating with governments and industry stakeholders to strengthen recovery efforts and ensure the long-term resilience of the global Travel & Tourism sector as it continues to play a central role in the world economy.