Ankara: Sun-drenched coastlines, timeless archaeological treasures, and a unique cultural mosaic where Europe meets Asia have propelled Trkiye's tourism sector to record heights. This year, it's on track to contribute an estimated 5.2 trillion Turkish liras (about $135.35 billion) to the national economy - roughly 12% of gross domestic product.
According to Anadolu Agency, in a fresh report, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) projected sectoral growth at more than $5.2 billion above last year's levels, with its CEO Julia Simpson praising Trkiye's strategic approach to promoting tourism. Speaking to Anadolu, Simpson said: 'Trkiye's vision has been important in driving its growth in tourism and it's been very important that Trkiye has put itself on the map as a tourist destination. Turkish Airlines flies to more destinations than any other airline in the world and it means that Trkiye is very well connected. And connectivity is very important,' she said.
Simpson added that Trkiye is a safe country, where travelers feel secure, and highlighted its natural beauty, especially the spectacular Antalya coast. She emphasized the importance of Trkiye's history and antiquities, describing it as the meeting point of the West and East. The WTTC study forecasts that both local and foreign tourists will contribute to this growth. Foreign visitor spending is projected to reach $67.7 billion in 2025, reflecting Trkiye's rising popularity on the global stage. Meanwhile, domestic visitor expenditure is expected to hit $36.5 billion, highlighting the country's vibrant internal tourism market.
The report also anticipates that the travel and tourism industry will support 3.3 million jobs across Trkiye this year, accounting for more than 10% of all employment. From food services and cultural events to transportation and hospitality, the sector is generating long-term opportunities for millions of Turkish citizens. 'We believe tourism is a real force for good and it helps cultures understand each other. It really is a bridge for peace and Trkiye offers a safe haven, and people are very respectful and appreciate each other,' Simpson said.
Highlighting the critical role of infrastructure in sustaining tourism growth, Simpson emphasized the importance of continued investment. She stressed the need for improved road infrastructure and promoting alternative tourist destinations as key factors in boosting tourism. Simpson also highlighted the need for responsible growth in the sector, both environmentally and socially. She pointed out that while the travel and tourism sector globally is responsible for about 7% of greenhouse gas emissions, Trkiye has seen a reduction in carbon intensity despite sector growth.
Simpson acknowledged that global conflicts affect tourism, but the impacts tend to be localized. However, she warned that economic uncertainty, stemming from tariffs and trade disputes, could create turbulence for the sector in the short term. Despite these potential challenges, Simpson noted that Trkiye's tourism numbers remain strong. She mentioned that Trkiye is experiencing a robust April, and when certain regions experience declines, other countries can benefit from increased tourist numbers.
Looking ahead, the WTTC expects the global travel and tourism sector to grow by 6.7% in 2025, reaching approximately $11.7 trillion in value. Travel and tourism jobs are projected to grow to just over 370 million globally next year, a 4% increase. Over the next decade, the WTTC forecasts that the sector will contribute $16.5 trillion to the global economy, representing 11.5% of global GDP.
Coral Travel Group, a leading tourism group in Trkiye and Europe, welcomed the positive outlook. Ayhan Bektas, Chairman of the Board at Coral Travel Group and a WTTC Member, expressed pride in contributing to Trkiye's tourism sector, which supports millions of jobs and delivers real value to the national economy. Bektas highlighted the successful partnership between the private sector and government, which has helped make Trkiye one of the world's most dynamic travel destinations.