Global travel and tourism predicted to grow 4.2% every year

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has forecast global travel and tourism industry will continue to grow at an annual rate of 4.2% for the next decade.

However, speaking at a tourism trade fair in Portugal, WTTC president Jean-Claude Baumgarten also called for the industry to act as responsible world citizens, “balancing business needs with cultural, social and environmental factors”.

He emphasised that conditions need to be put in place for the growth to generate wide prosperity, rather than squander opportunities and increase international tensions.

Also speaking at the trade fair, the country’s secretary of state for tourism, Bernardo Trindade, added: “The travel and tourism industry recognises the role that it must play to manage this growth responsibly and invest now for a sustainable future.”

This year WTTC has created an interactive web channel where members and speakers will put forward their ideas and opinions on all industry matters. Members of the public are invited to comment.

This year’s WTTC Summit ‘Breaking Barriers, Managing Growth’ will be held in Lisbon, Portugal from 10-12 May. For more information go to www.globaltraveltourism.com

WTTC new chairman >>

WTTC warns UK of complacency >>

WTTC predicts bright future >>

By Emily Manson

E-mail your comments to Emily Manson here.

Get your copy of Caterer and Hotelkeeper every week - click here to subscribe and save 25%.