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Global Tourism Leaders Gather in Perth for the WTTC 24th Global Summit
Perth, Australia — The 24th Global Summit of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) officially commenced in Perth, marking a significant milestone for the global Travel & Tourism sector. The summit brought together a diverse group of industry leaders, government officials, and influential figures to discuss and shape the future of tourism in an increasingly interconnected world.
Highlighting Perth's Role in Global Tourism
WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson, opened the summit with a keynote address that emphasized the unique role of Perth as the host city. She praised its historical connection to exploration, its deep-rooted Indigenous heritage, and its innovative approach to tourism. Simpson stated, "Perth is more than a gateway to Australia; it’s a beacon for the future of Travel & Tourism. This city has shown us what is possible when we invest in connectivity, embrace technology, and empower communities."
Reflecting on her visit to Western Australia earlier this year, Simpson highlighted the significance of Indigenous tourism, saying, “Western Australia is a shining example of how empowering Indigenous communities to tell their own stories and share their 60,000-year-old culture can create sustainable tourism opportunities while enriching the experiences of travelers.”
Economic Impact and Sustainability
Simpson also touched on the economic impact of the Travel & Tourism sector, predicting that it will contribute a record-breaking $11 trillion to the global economy this year. "But our vision goes beyond numbers—it’s about building a sustainable future where travel empowers local people, safeguards our planet’s heritage, and brings the world closer together," she added.
One of the key findings presented during the summit was the latest data on the sector's environmental impact. The WTTC's research revealed that in 2023, the travel and tourism sector accounted for 6.7% of global emissions, down from 7.8% in 2019. This decline in emissions is indicative of the sector's growing commitment to environmental responsibility. Global greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 were 12% lower than their peak in 2019, and the emission intensity per unit of GDP dropped by 8.4% during this period, underscoring the sector's shift toward more sustainable growth.
Global Leaders Dialogue: A Platform for Innovation
The summit also featured the Global Leaders Dialogue (GLD), a platform where government officials and industry leaders discussed strategies to foster sustainable long-term growth in global Travel & Tourism. Key focus areas included the integration of technology, sustainable practices, and infrastructure development to enhance tourism experiences, boost economic impact, and create quality jobs.
Notable participants in the dialogue included high-profile representatives such as Rita Saffioti, Minister of Tourism of Western Australia; Sultan Mohammed Al Musallam, Vice Minister of Tourism for International Affairs from Saudi Arabia; Erika Guerri, Chief of Staff of Italy's Ministry of Tourism; and Brian Beall, Director of the National Travel and Tourism Office from the United States, among others.
Private sector representatives included leaders from companies like Certares, Arsenale SPA, Cruise Saudi, Indian Hotels Company, JP Morgan Chase, Radisson Hotel Group, and VFS Global. The dialogue underscored the critical need for collaboration between public and private sectors to drive the industry towards a sustainable future.
High-Profile Speakers and Key Themes
Over the course of the two-day event, the summit will feature high-profile speakers including U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, and leaders from some of the world’s most influential travel companies. The agenda will delve into essential topics such as destination stewardship, the impact of artificial intelligence on the sector, and the pivotal role of Indigenous tourism in promoting regenerative travel.
With delegates from over 70 countries, the WTTC Global Summit 2024 is poised to be a landmark event that will influence the trajectory of the Travel & Tourism industry. The focus on sustainable growth aims to empower local communities and preserve the unique landscapes that make travel such a transformative experience.
Looking Ahead
As the summit progresses, industry leaders and policymakers will continue to explore innovative strategies to ensure that tourism not only grows but does so in a way that respects the environment and benefits local populations. The collaborative spirit of the WTTC Global Summit in Perth is expected to set the stage for a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for Travel & Tourism worldwide.