Germany has retained its position as Europe’s largest Travel & Tourism economy, according to new research released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The research shows that Germany’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed €348.1 billion to the country’s economy in 2017. This was ahead of the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Spain.
Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said “Travel & Tourism creates jobs, drives economic growth and helps build better societies. This is particularly the case in Germany, the largest travel economy in Europe and the third in the world.
“The data also shows that tourism in Germany grew by 1.7% in 2017. This compares to 9.8% growth in China, 6.2% in the United Kingdom, 7% in Spain, and 5.5% in Canada. This implies that Germany is not getting its fair share of growth as other countries are increasing their tourism at a faster rate. In fact, our research shows that by 2028, India will overtake Germany for the world number three position.
“This means there is a huge opportunity for Germany to grow tourism to increase jobs and exports. According to recent WTTC research, Travel & Tourism employs more people in Germany than automotive manufacturing, banking, chemicals and financial services; so the tourism sector is the best partner Germany can have in creating new jobs. It is important that the Government puts our sector at the heart of decision making so I welcome the recent indication by Chancellor Merkel at ITB Berlin that a senior ministerial appointment for tourism will be made.
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