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INTERNATIONAL tourist arrivals in 2013 reached 1.087 billion, a five percent increase from the previous year, the United Nations4 World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has said. Data released by the UNWTO shows that in 2012 arrivals totalled 1.035 billion, up from 995 million in 2011.
“Despite global economic challenges, international tourism results were well above expectations, with an additional 52 million international tourists travelling the world in 2013,” it said.
“For 2014, UNWTO forecasts 4 percent to 4.5 percent growth – again, above the long term projections.”
Demand for international tourism was strongest for destinations in Asia, the Pacific and Africa which registered six percent growth each while Europe, the world’s largest tourism region registered five percent growth.
Africa attracted three million additional arrivals, reaching a new record of 56 million, buoyed by the on-going rebound in North Africa and the sustained growth of Sub-Saharan destinations.
The Americas saw an increase of six million arrivals, reaching 169 million, led by growth in destinations in North and Central America while South America and the Caribbean showed some slowdown compared to 2012.
Commenting on the figures, UNWTO secretary-general Taleb Rifai said growth witnessed in 2013 was evidence the tourism sector could adjust to any market conditions.
“2013 was an excellent year for international tourism. The tourism sector has shown a remarkable capacity to adjust to the changing market conditions, fuelling growth and job creation around the world, despite the lingering economic and geo-political challenges. Indeed, tourism has been among the few sectors generating positive news for many economies.
“The positive results of 2013, and the expected global economic improvement in 2014, set the scene for another positive year for international tourism. Against this backdrop, UNWTO calls upon national governments to increasingly set up national strategies that support the sector and to deliver on their commitment to fair and sustainable growth,” he said.
Online Reporter