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Home » TOURISM NEWS » India’s International Tourism Spending Hits $36 Billion in 2024, With Promising Growth for 2025 and 2035 Sunday, June 8, 2025India’s travel and tourism sector has truly taken off, with international visitors spending a staggering $36 billion in 2024. This is a major milestone that reflects not only India’s growing importance in the global tourism landscape but also the broader recovery of international travel as a whole. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), this surge in international tourism is playing a pivotal role in driving the overall growth of the sector.India’s International Tourism Spending Reaches New HeightsIndia’s international tourism spending reached $36 billion in 2024, marking the highest level of spending from international visitors in the country’s history. This surge in international travel spending shows the confidence returning to global tourism and highlights India’s emerging status as a key destination for global travelers.According to Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, “India’s travel and tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with international visitor numbers now at record highs.” The data confirms that India has become a go-to destination, offering diverse experiences that appeal to travelers worldwide. This increase in spending is a positive indicator of the sector’s growth and the country’s continued appeal as a travel hub.Surpassing Previous RecordsIndia attracted 20 million international visitors in 2024, exceeding the number of arrivals recorded in 2019 by 2.3 million. This growth underscores India’s status as a top destination for international travelers, with the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and growing modern infrastructure drawing more visitors each year.In terms of economic contribution, the tourism sector contributed nearly Rs 21 trillion ($244.53 billion) to India’s GDP in 2024, a substantial 20% increase from 2019. This growth has been essential in driving India’s economic recovery, especially following the pandemic’s effects. Furthermore, the sector provided 46.5 million jobs, representing 9.1% of India’s total workforce, reinforcing the importance of tourism as a major job generator.Simplifying Visa Processes to Boost TourismWTTC has stressed the importance of simplifying India’s visa process to encourage more international visitors. Currently, the e-visa system and visa-on-arrival options are available, but delays and complications, especially in key markets like the United States, where appointment backlogs extend to 2026, are limiting growth potential.A smoother visa application process would undoubtedly attract more tourists to India, facilitating easier travel and driving up spending. WTTC’s call for the government to streamline visa policies reflects the sector’s potential to grow further if these barriers are removed.Projected Growth for 2025 and BeyondWTTC’s forecast for India’s tourism sector is optimistic. By 2025, the sector is expected to contribute over Rs 22 trillion ($256.17 billion) to the economy, with international tourism spending reaching Rs 3.2 trillion ($37.26 billion). Additionally, domestic tourism is projected to hit Rs 16 trillion ($186.31 billion), reflecting a growing demand for both inbound and domestic travel experiences.The job market in tourism is expected to grow as well, with employment in the sector surpassing 48 million by 2025. By 2035, travel and tourism’s contribution to India’s economy is anticipated to nearly double, potentially reaching Rs 42 trillion ($489.05 billion), creating close to 64 million jobs.Unlocking Opportunities Through EntrepreneurshipIndia’s tourism sector also presents opportunities for entrepreneurship, particularly in the luxury travel segment. As younger generations of travelers seek unique and personalized experiences, businesses that cater to this demand stand to benefit. Additionally, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are critical to the sector’s innovation and growth, helping to drive regional tourism and providing new experiences for visitors.Call for Continued Government SupportWTTC is urging the Indian government to continue its investment in tourism and to reconsider its decision to cut funding for overseas tourism promotion. The sector’s growth and global competitiveness depend on consistent and supportive policies that can sustain the momentum built over recent years. This includes fostering policy coherence between national and international tourism strategies.ConclusionThe international tourism sector in India has reached impressive heights in 2024, with a remarkable $36 billion in spending from global visitors. This growth is expected to continue, fueled by strong government support and investments in infrastructure. As the sector expands, it will play a bigger role in India’s economic future, creating more jobs and further solidifying India’s position as a major global tourism hub. The country is well on its way to attracting even more visitors and driving innovation in the tourism industry.With international visitor spending on the rise and continued government backing, India’s tourism industry is set for an even brighter future. The growth we’re seeing today is just the beginning, and the sector’s potential is boundless as it continues to thrive in the years to come.
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