Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), reaffirmed in her speech at the opening of ITB Berlin that tourism is an engine for peace and sustainable economic development.
A fast-growing industry
One of the world’s most important tourism events kicked off on March 3, with 5,600 exhibitors from 170 countries taking part. The opening of ITB Berlin was marked by a speech by Julia Simpson, who underlined the impressive recovery and progress made by the sector in the space of just one year.
According to figures announced by the WTTC President, tourism will account for 11.6% of the global economy by 2034, and one in nine jobs will be linked to this industry, i.e. almost 450 million worldwide, including 100 million new positions.
The main drivers of growth in tourism
Discussing future expansion, challenges and opportunities, Julia Simpson emphasized the importance of sustainability. “WTTC data shows that our sector was responsible for 8.1% of global emissions in 2019. That’s why our sector’s efforts to promote more sustainable fuels such as SAF, biodiesel and alternative marine fuels are so important. . »
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She also encouraged professionals to foster a spirit of unity and collaboration, as it is through global cooperation and the collective efforts of governments and civil society that tourism will be able to meet future challenges, stimulate economic prosperity and contribute to sustainable progress on a global scale. In conclusion, she spoke of artificial intelligence, stressing that it is a valuable tool that will have a greater impact on tourism than any other technology.
Throughout the convention, Julia Simpson met with country representatives and business leaders to follow up on projects and initiatives that will strengthen the industry.
The future of tourism will depend on how it is balanced with sustainability. While the industry has demonstrated its ability to recover and adapt, environmental challenges and the need for technological innovation will be crucial to ensuring that it remains a positive force in the global economy.
