The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveiled a report at its Global Summit in Perth, Australia, forecasting that Indigenous tourism will contribute $67 billion to the global economy by 2034.
The sector is recognized for its role in economic growth, cultural preservation, and community empowerment, particularly in remote areas.
At the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Global Summit in Perth, Australia, a landmark report was launched, predicting that Indigenous tourism will contribute $67 billion to the global economy by 2034.
This emerging sector is highlighted as a key economic driver, creating jobs and promoting the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples while providing unique experiences for visitors.
The report underscores the vital role of Indigenous tourism in fostering economic growth in remote areas, empowering communities to take control of their futures.
With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% over the next decade, the Indigenous tourism market is positioned for significant expansion.
Western Australia has seen a surge in interest and participation in Aboriginal tourism experiences, with nearly 87% of visitors expressing interest, and over 36% actively participating in Aboriginal tourism in 2023-24. In the 2021-22 fiscal year, Aboriginal tourism businesses contributed approximately $63.8 million to the state’s Gross State Product.
Globally, the Indigenous tourism sector supports thousands of businesses and jobs. In Canada alone, it bolstered nearly 2,000 businesses and provided over 39,000 jobs, contributing CA$1.7 billion to the economy in 2017.
In Panama’s Guna Yala region, tourism serves as the primary economic driver, sustaining the Guna people and preserving their culture.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, emphasized the dual focus of Indigenous tourism on showcasing cultural traditions and empowering communities. She stated, “This report demonstrates the immense potential of Indigenous tourism to drive economic growth, particularly in remote regions, while preserving invaluable cultural heritage.”
Robert Taylor, CEO of the Western Australia Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC), noted the importance of authentic experiences and the collaboration with Tourism Western Australia to promote Indigenous tourism.
The Jina: Western Australia Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2021-2025 aims to support new businesses and encourage Aboriginal participation in the tourism industry.
Taylor mentioned successful initiatives, such as “Camping with Custodians,” which develops campgrounds on Aboriginal lands.
The report also highlights how Indigenous tourism preserves cultural heritage and languages. Initiatives like the Sámi Duodji certification mark in Northern Europe and Peru’s Kipi robot for endangered languages exemplify how tourism can help safeguard cultural identities.
Despite the growth, many Indigenous operators face challenges in accessing funding. Canada’s Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF) aims to raise CA$2.6 billion by 2030 to create 800 new Indigenous businesses and over 21,000 jobs, ensuring that communities fully benefit from the tourism boom.
The WTTC remains committed to supporting Indigenous peoples worldwide in shaping their tourism narratives, aiming for a thriving, self-sustaining industry that benefits everyone involved.
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