New data from the World Travel & Tourism Council and Chase Travel has revealed that travel & tourism has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing sector, outgrowing the global economy in 2025.
According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), Travel & Tourism’s global GDP contribution reached a record US$11.6 trillion in 2025, accounting for 9.8 per cent of the global economy. The sector’s growth (4.1 per cent) exceeded overall global economic growth (2.8 per cent) by almost 50 per cent, underscoring its role as a primary engine of global expansion.
In a landmark milestone, travel and tourism supported 366 million jobs (10.9 per cent) worldwide in 2025 – a figure greater than the total population of the United States – reinforcing its critical role in global employment and livelihoods. The sector also accounted for 1 in 3 new jobs created globally.
This exceptional performance confirms Travel & Tourism not only as a driver of recovery, but as a leading force shaping the future of the global economy.
Regional outlook
WTTC’s data also reveals a clear divergence in regional performance, with Asia-Pacific emerging as the fastest-growing region globally, while North America trails behind other major markets.
Asia-Pacific recorded the strongest expansion in Travel & Tourism GDP in 2025, with growth of 8.1 per cent, driven by reopening momentum, rising international demand, and strong regional connectivity, reaching US$3.29 (around AU$4.59) trillion.
In contrast, North America saw significantly slower growth of just 1 per cent, with Travel & Tourism GDP totalling US$3.05 (around AU$4.26) trillion, reflecting continued challenges in international visitor recovery and more mature market dynamics.
This regional imbalance highlights how policy, investment, and international openness continue to shape the pace of growth across global markets.
“Despite the global challenges of 2025, the Travel & Tourism sector had its best year ever, which demonstrates its resilience,” WTTC president and CEO Gloria Guevara said. “In a truly record-breaking year, the sector contributed an unprecedented US$11.6 trillion to the global economy. This exceptional performance underscores not only its economic strength, but its resilience and ability to outpace wider global growth.
“The scale of global travel is equally remarkable. With 1.54 billion international overnight arrivals this year – equivalent to 4.2 million people travelling every day – Travel & Tourism continues to connect the world at an extraordinary pace, surpassing both last year’s levels and pre-pandemic benchmarks.
“This is a defining moment. Governments around the world must recognise Travel & Tourism as a strategic priority and continue enabling policies that support growth, investment, and connectivity.”
“What we’re seeing today is not just sustained demand for Travel & Tourism, but a reacceleration, as travellers prioritise meaningful experiences and plan with greater intention,” Chase Travel CEO Jason Wynn said.
“At the same time, the recovery remains uneven across markets, with affordability and capacity constraints influencing where and how people choose to travel. In this environment, delivering seamless end-to-end journeys, expanding access and connectivity, and investing in smarter, more flexible travel experiences will be critical for Chase Travel and the industry at large.”
WTTC continues to work closely with governments and industry leaders to support a full global recovery, strengthen resilience, and ensure Travel & Tourism remains a cornerstone of inclusive economic progress.
