According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), 2018 saw 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals (+6%), the second strongest year since 2010. This is ahead of UNWTO’s long term forecast from 2010 which indicated the 1.4 billion mark would be reached in 2020.

This represents remarkable growth for the international sector, and is encouraging news for Canada.

The Middle East (+10%) and Africa (+7%) grew above the world average while Asia and the Pacific and Europe grew at 6%.

In relative terms, the Middle East (+10%), Africa (+7%), Asia and the Pacific and Europe (both at +6%) led growth in 2018. Arrivals to the Americas were below the world average (+3%), but still welcomed 217 million international visitors, led by North America (+4%).

UNWTO forecasts international arrivals to grow 3% to 4% next year, more in line with historical growth trends.

We’ll be watching for updates and will report on new statistics as they become available.

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