Kate Whiting, Simon Torkington and Andrea Willige
February 12, 2026
Top 5 countries leading the sustainable tourism sector
Travel and tourism account for around 10% of global GDP and employment. Our new Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 ranks the nations leading the way in building a sustainable tourism sector.
Travel and tourism are a key driver of global prosperity, accounting for roughly 10% of the world economy. The report predicts a positive outlook, with international tourism expected to reach pre-pandemic levels again in 2024.
Top Performers in Sustainable and Resilient Tourism
World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 identifies these five countries as leading the world in growing sustainable and resilient tourism:
5. Australia
4. France
3. Japan
2. Spain
1. United States
The Global Tourism Landscape
While the future of tourism appears bright, challenges remain on the path to sustainable growth. These challenges include:
- Labor shortages
- Global inflation
- Environmental disasters exacerbated by climate change
The World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 serves as a valuable tool, charting trends and risks in global tourism.
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