Tourism Sector Recovers As North Africa Records Strong Performance
Data from the latest world tourism barometer for the United Nations Tourism World shows that “virtual recovery of pre-pandemic levels” as the continent arrives 7% higher in 2024 than in 2019.
United Nations Tourism estimates that 1.4 billion tourists travel internationally in 2024, accounting for 11%. More arrivals on the African continent, especially during the same period.
“In 2024, global tourism has completed its recovery from the pandemic, and in many places, tourism and special revenues have been higher than in 2019,” Zurab Pololikashvili said in a statement.
According to the World Tourism and Tourism Commission (WTTC), in 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry (including its direct, indirect and induced effects), had an impact of 10.4% or 10.3 trillion of global GDP, according to the World Tourism and Tourism Commission (WTTC). Dollar.
It reportedly contributed 9.1% to global GDP in 2023; an increase of 23.2% from 2022.
“The future is very bright. We can predict a record 2024. The industry’s global economic contribution will reach an all-time high of $11.1 trillion,” Julia Simpson, president and CEO of WTTC, said in April. , which will generate $1 per ten dollars worldwide. The industry is also expected to support nearly 348 million jobs, with 13.6 million jobs added to its 2019 record.”
Since 2019, North Africa’s international arrivals have been 22% higher than the pandemic figures, and Morocco’s number has increased by 35%. The country surpasses Egypt, with 17.4 million tourists reportedly reaching the plan in its roadmap for 17.4 million in 2024.
Quoting Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Crafts and Society and Solidarity Economy, the country, the performance is “as a result of targeted investments by our government in the sector, which is constantly on the economy of our country and on professionals in the field.” mobilization”.
Morocco will hold the African Cup of Nations in 2025, further strengthening its growth prospects.
According to the United Nations tourism industry, Egypt’s arrival increased by 23% from 2019, followed by Kenya and Tunisia, both at 9%. Seychelles fell by 8%, while South Africa fell by 13%.
Statista said that by 2025, Africa’s tourism and tourism market is expected to reach US$25.16 billion.
However, the United Nations tourism industry warns that higher transportation and accommodation costs, economic factors and geopolitical risks remain three major challenges international tourism will face this year.
“Growth is expected to continue in 2025, as a result of strong demand boosting, which contributes to socio-economic development in mature and emerging destinations,” Pololikashvili said.
“This reminds us of our enormous responsibility as a department that accelerates transformation, putting people and the planet at the center of tourism development.”
From: Forbesafrica
