Global Travel and Tourism Growth to Outpace World Economy Through 2036

Travel and Tourism Sector Forecast to Grow Faster Than Global GDP

Global Travel and Tourism is expected to continue growing faster than the wider global economy in 2026, according to new figures released by the World Travel & Tourism Council and sponsored by Chase Travel as Lead Research Partner.

The latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) by WTTC forecasts the sector will contribute US$12 trillion to the global economy in 2026, accounting for 9.9% of global GDP. The industry is projected to grow by 3.2% next year, compared to the wider global economic growth forecast of 2.4%.

Travel and Tourism is also expected to support 376 million jobs worldwide in 2026, representing around one in every nine jobs globally.

Over the next decade, the sector is forecast to create nearly 89 million new jobs worldwide, contributing around one-third of all new jobs expected across the global economy. During the same period, Travel and Tourism GDP is projected to grow at an annual average rate of 3.6%, compared to 2.4% for the wider economy.

WTTC said continued investment in infrastructure, digital technology, destination management, workforce training, and international connectivity will play an important role in supporting long-term growth. The organisation also highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence and new technologies to improve traveller experience, operational efficiency, and workforce development across the industry.

In Europe, Travel and Tourism is forecast to grow faster than the wider regional economy in 2026. While overall European GDP growth is expected to reach 1% next year, Travel and Tourism GDP across the region is projected to grow by 3.6%.

The report noted that international visitor spending across Europe is expected to rise by 7.1% in 2026, above the global average of 3.7%, as many travellers continue to choose destinations closer to home amid geopolitical uncertainty and changing travel patterns.

Southern European destinations are expected to maintain steady growth. Spain’s Travel and Tourism sector is forecast to grow by 3.7% in 2026, while Italy is projected to record growth of 3.8%. International visitor spending in Spain is also expected to increase by 5.3%.

In 2025, Spain welcomed 96.8 million international visitors, making it one of the most visited destinations in Europe. The country also recorded €115.1 billion (US$130.1 billion) in international visitor spending during the year.

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said Travel and Tourism continues to support economic activity across Europe at a time of slower, wider economic growth. She added that investment, connectivity, and travel policies will remain important for maintaining the sector’s momentum in the coming years.

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