Emerging destinations 'to lead tourism industry growth'

Emerging economy destinations will lead the growth of the tourism industry over the next 20 years, a new report predicts.

A long-term forecast released by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) this month suggests that emerging locations will see international visitor numbers increase by 4.4% per year over the next two decades, while advanced economies will experience annual increases of 2.2%.

Countries in Asia, Latin America, central and eastern Europe, eastern Mediterranean Europe, the Middle East and Africa are expected to gain an average of 30m arrivals per year, compared to traditionally popular nations in North America, western Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

The UNWTO predicts that international tourist arrivals will reach 1.8bn by 2030, increasing by an average of 3.3% per year.

Visitor numbers across the globe are expected to pass the 1bn mark by next year, rising from the 940m recorded in 2010.

UNWTO secretary-general Taleb Rifai said the next two decades will bring 'responsible and inclusive' growth for the sector.

He added: 'This growth offers immense possibilities as these can also be years of leadership, with tourism leading economic growth, social progress and environmental sustainability.'

Source - opodo.co.uk