International Tourism Forecasted to Return to Pre-Pandemic Levels by 2024, UNWTO Reports

MADRID- The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) revealed that international tourism is projected to rebound to its pre-pandemic status by the end of 2024. This optimistic outlook was detailed in a report published by the UNWTO on Friday.

According to the Philippines News Agency, around 1.3 billion international travelers are estimated for 2023, reaching 88 percent of the levels seen before the pandemic. The report attributes this recovery to a significant improvement in Asian markets and an increase in airline connectivity, which are anticipated to drive the full recovery by 2024’s conclusion. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the resilience and rapid recovery of the tourism sector, projecting that pre-pandemic tourism figures will be achieved by the end of 2024.

Pololikashvili noted the substantial impact of the tourism rebound on global economies, job creation, growth, and community opportunities. He also highlighted the importance of prioritizing sustainability and inclusion in the development of the tourism sector. The Madrid-based organization pointed out that Chinese outbound and inbound tourism is likely to experience a significant boost in 2024, propelled by easier visa processes and enhanced air capacity.

Furthermore, the report disclosed that international tourism receipts in 2023 reached USD 1.4 trillion, representing 93 percent of the USD 1.5 trillion recorded in 2019. This signals a substantial recovery for an industry that has faced unprecedented challenges over the past few years.