Travel industry seen recovering from recession: WTM 2010
11th Nov 2010 Travellers are rediscovering travel following the recession, according to data unveiled on the second day (November 9) of the ongoing World Travel Market.
Latest figures from World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) show that worldwide, travel and tourism’s gross domestic product is expected to rise by two per cent this year, compared with a forecast in January of only 0.5 per cent. However, the WTTC has urged caution, pointing out this sudden growth spurt means that tourism GDP in 2011 will grow by only 2.7 per cent, compared with 3.2 per cent forecast in January.
Figures from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for the first nine months of this year confirm the progressive recovery of the industry with a seven per cent increase in international arrivals compared with the same period in 2009.
A high-profile Summit, attended by more than 150 government tourism ministers and their aides, heard about the importance of tourism during the economic recovery. Taleb Rifai, Secretary General Ad Interim, UNWTO said, “Tourism should be seen as part of the solution.” The Summit illustrated how governments around the world prioritise tourism differently. China was seen as one of the most progressive, with its central government identifying tourism as one of the country’s key industries, giving it the backing to grow.
Taxation was a recurring theme during the Summit and elsewhere during the day. Ken O’Toole, Director of New Route Development, Ryanair warned airports that the carrier would pull routes if airport charges were increased. On the other hand, airports which reduced fees would see more business.
