The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced unprecedented growth in France's Travel & Tourism sector, revealing a nearly 6% year-on-year increase in GDP contribution to a historic €246 billion last year.

WTTC's latest findings indicate that in 2023, Travel & Tourism exceeded its previous peak by 4.3%, making up 8.8% of France's total economic output. This impressive performance underscores the sector's critical role in the French economy.

In partnership with Oxford Economics, WTTC's research highlights significant opportunities within the sector, which generated over 172,000 new jobs, raising the total to nearly 2.9 million across the nation—4.7% above 2019 levels. This sustained growth affirms Travel & Tourism as a key employment driver, now responsible for one in every eleven jobs in France.

International tourists injected €66.7 billion into the economy last year, while domestic travel spending rebounded to €135 billion, surpassing 2019 figures by 1% and 3%, respectively. These numbers emphasize the sector's importance for economic expansion and job creation, with Paris remaining the top destination for international visitors.

This year, the French Travel & Tourism industry is expected to reach a record economic contribution of over €254.7 billion, nearly 8% higher than 2019 levels. This milestone further highlights the sector's crucial role, accounting for 9% of the national economy.

The sector is predicted to support 2.93 million jobs in France, an increase of more than 76,000 compared to its previous peak. As the world's leading destination, spending by both international and domestic tourists is forecast to hit new highs, with total expenditures projected at €70.3 billion and €138.8 billion, respectively. This anticipated growth is buoyed by the upcoming Olympics and Paralympics Games in France later this year.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, stated, "France is achieving remarkable records in Travel & Tourism, solidifying its position as the world's top destination. President Macron's dedication to showcasing Travel & Tourism's economic impact and its role in job creation has been vital in keeping France at the forefront."

Following the successful Rugby World Cup, France continues to attract global attention as it prepares for the Olympic and Paralympics Games.

WTTC forecasts a bright decade ahead for France's Travel & Tourism sector. By 2034, it is expected to significantly boost the economy with a projected contribution of €310.5 billion, representing 9.6% of the total economic output.

The sector is also anticipated to remain a major job creator, projected to employ 3.4 million people nationwide, equaling one in every ten workers.

The next decade promises not only growth but also a transformative period for Travel & Tourism in France. The country is set to enter an era marked by prosperity, innovation, and unprecedented connectivity, heralding a golden age eagerly awaited by both consumers and businesses.