US retains top spot in travel market, India ranks 9th

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The United States continues to dominate global travel and tourism, contributing $2.6 trillion to GDP in 2024, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) latest report released at its 25th Global Summit in Rome. While the US retained the top spot, India made notable progress, ranking ninth globally.

China held second place with a $1.64 trillion contribution, forecast to grow by nearly 23% this year as international travel rebounds. Europe remained central, with Germany ($525 billion), the UK ($367 billion), France ($289 billion), and Spain ($270 billion) all featuring in the top 10. Italy, which hosted the summit, posted $248 billion and reinforced its role as a hub for international meetings and events.

India’s position at ninth reflects both the resilience of its domestic tourism and its rising profile as a global travel destination. The report forecasts that by 2035, one in eight jobs worldwide will be linked to the travel sector, with Asia-Pacific driving much of that growth.

Globally, travel and tourism supported 357 million jobs in 2024 and is projected to rise to 371 million in 2025. Investment remains strong, with $1 trillion committed last year, led by the US, China, Saudi Arabia, and France.

WTTC interim CEO Gloria Guevara said: “These results tell a story of strength and opportunity. The US remains the largest market, China is surging back, and destinations across Asia and the Middle East are delivering record growth.”

Despite geopolitical headwinds and trade concerns, the sector is expected to contribute $11.7 trillion to the global economy in 2025 — 10.3% of worldwide GDP.