UNWTO: International tourists have at least recovered to 80% of the pre-epidemic level

time:2023-04-27 11:27 author:IMTA-Economic Daily

Recently, multi-country data and agency reports show that tourism is showing an accelerating recovery. A confidence index published by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) predicts that global international tourist arrivals could return to 80 to 95 percent of pre-pandemic levels by 2023.

Source: International Mountain Tourism Alliance Gallery

The situation in the international tourism industry is improving, thanks to countries further relaxing travel restrictions and introducing a number of measures to attract tourists. For example, India announced that it would lift pre-departure testing requirements for passengers from Thailand, China, Japan, South Korea and other places; The Brazilian Ministry of Tourism launched an experience project named "Original Brazil" to explore new growth points for the industry. Japan, on the other hand, has put forward a long-term goal to achieve a record high number of tourists visiting Japan by 2025. While the number of tourists increases, the per capita consumption of tourists visiting Japan should also be increased. Although the world economy still faces many risks and challenges, thanks to the joint efforts of various parties, the recovery of the global tourism industry has become unstoppable.

A sustained recovery in global tourism will inject confidence and strength into an uncertain world. Tourism has always been an important part of the global economy. Statistics show that one out of every 10 people in the world works in tourism-related industries. In some countries, tourism accounts for more than 20 percent of their gross domestic product. Tourism is also a key pillar in advancing the goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. According to Zurab Polollikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, the global tourism recovery is bringing hope and opportunity to people everywhere, and now is the time to shape a new type of tourism. "People need to rethink where this industry is going and how it will affect people and the planet."

Source: International Mountain Tourism Alliance  Gallery

As an important engine of global tourism, the progress of Chinese outbound tourism has attracted much attention. Since the beginning of this year, as China has optimized and adjusted its epidemic prevention policies, Chinese outbound tourism has increased rapidly, injecting confidence and impetus into the global tourism industry and economic recovery. According to the Natixis research report, if the intensity of Chinese tourist flows returned to pre-pandemic levels, the world would gain an additional $160 billion a year. Overseas investors are optimistic about the spillover effect of China's outbound tourism, not only because of the further release of China's consumption potential, but also because of the opportunities and impetus that China's accelerated economic recovery will bring to the global economy. In the first quarter of this year, China's economic data showed positive momentum. "China has started again." Many heads of multinational companies believe it is vital for everyone that China grows and invests again.

To achieve better development of the global tourism industry, it is particularly important to strengthen international exchanges and cooperation. For example, some famous scenic spots are shared by two or even more countries. Only close international cooperation, including joint management and marketing, can bring better international tourism experience to tourists. In addition, the development of virtual reality, artificial intelligence and other new technologies has brought new opportunities for tourism transformation. At present, many countries are strengthening the digital construction of tourism industry and putting scenic spots or exhibits online to provide tourists with more interactive experience and intelligent services. It is foreseeable that in the future, the international community will strengthen exchanges and cooperation, increase the sharing of scientific and technological development achievements, will create a better tourism environment and improve the level of economic development of all countries.

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