Travel & Tourism is a key driver in helping to bring prosperity to the citizens, businesses and governments of cities, territories and countries worldwide.
WTTC’s research addresses the present and future challenges that the sector faces and provides guidance and recommendations for both the private sector and governments so they can overcome barriers to growth, increase their competitiveness and stay ahead of the curve.
WTTC produces datasets on the economic and employment contribution that Travel & Tourism makes to cities, economies, and regions. But WTTC also builds on this raw data, alongside research techniques such as surveys and interviews with WTTC members and other business leaders, to create thought leadership reports that look into the opportunities for sustainable economic growth in particular domains. These focused reports are often in a regional context or analyse a certain segment or industry within the sector.
Regional Analysis
Each region of the world has its own set of challenges, requirements, and opportunities when it comes to the competitiveness of Travel and Tourism. WTTC has produced specific regional thought leadership reports that address these, often assessing issues such as air and land connectivity, policies around visas, taxes and investment, or the impacts of climate change.

Unlocking Opportunities For Travel & Tourism Growth in Oceania
Key elements of this report include:
- Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to GDP and jobs from each of Oceania’s principal nations, and the share of inbound source markets to Oceanic islands
- An analysis of the sector’s energy use and contribution to emissions in Oceania
- The need to improve connectivity and visa facilitation, and to address workforce and skills shortages
- Examples of community-based tourism and Indigenous tourism

Unlocking Opportunities For Travel & Tourism Growth In Latin America
This report examines the economic, environmental and social impact that Travel & Tourism brings to Latin America. It outlines challenges around connectivity, tourism infrastructure, high taxes and fees, skills development and environmental sustainability. and provides recommendations for governments and Travel & Tourism businesses.

Unlocking Opportunities For Travel & Tourism Growth in Africa
This report sets out the immense opportunity of Travel & Tourism in Africa.
- Travel & Tourism businesses can discover the top destinations for projected growth and investment, and the critical risks to look out for - from political instability and climate shocks to a rapidly expanding labour market.
- Policymakers can see the countries most dependent on tourism in Africa, effective visa processing models, and the vital role of investment in infrastructure and connectivity.
- Sustainability stakeholders can see Africa’s share of freshwater consumption and best practice examples of local community engagement and protecting wildlife while attracting visitors.
Sectoral Analysis
Travel & Tourism covers a broad range of segments and industries, and the prospects and opportunities for businesses can vary significantly depending on the area they specialise in. WTTC has produced insights focused on certain industries such as the hotel and short-term rentals markets. WTTC’s research also looks at segments and themes such as Indigenous Tourism and business travel, as well as consumer trends.

Global Retail Tourism Trends and Insights
This report sheds light on the immense untapped potential of retail tourism for both destinations and businesses, featuring unique research into the economic impact of retail tourism at a global and regional level as well as within specific economies. This includes the results of a WTTC survey of nearly 4,600 shopping travellers from 24 global source markets.

Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism
This report highlights the significance of Indigenous Tourism while also sharing best practice from around the world. Drawing on case studies, the report emphasises how the Travel & Tourism sector can better support Indigenous communities and the role the sector plays in cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.
This report also provides considerations to support policymakers, shares best practice and inspires policy makers and stakeholders towards increased support for Indigenous tourism as a vital pathway to sustainable development.