The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) revealed recently that the Albanian travel and tourism sector contributed more to the economy and supported more jobs in 2023 than in any prior year on record.
According to the latest analysis from the worldwide tourist organization, the sector’s contribution to Albania’s GDP reached about L565BN last year, approximately 37% higher than the previous high point in 2019.
In 2023, Travel & Tourism contributed one out of every four lek to the Albanian GDP, demonstrating the sector’s success.
Jobs supported by the sector expanded by more than 10% in 2019, with Travel & Tourism supporting about 269,000 jobs across the country, accounting for one in every five jobs in Albania.
International visitor spending increased by more than 45% over the 2019 peak to reach L464BN, while domestic visitor spending exceeded 2019 levels, reaching more than L100BN last year.
Records Expected to Be Broken Again in 2024.
WTTC predicts that the sector’s total GDP contribution will continue to rise, reaching nearly L608.5 billion this year, with nearly 10,000 new jobs projected.
International tourist expenditure is expected to exceed L493 billion, representing a whopping 55% growth above 2019 levels. Domestic tourist expenditure is also expected to exceed L107 billion this year.
Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, stated, “Albania is a bright example of how travel and tourism can generate economic success and job creation. The record-breaking results for Albania show genuine growth and possibilities for thousands of people.
“Albania has emerged on the global stage as a fantastic destination. Albania’s travel and tourism industry is establishing itself as a growing destination in the global tourism landscape, thanks to government backing.
Albania is continuing to set new records, cementing its status as one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.
With the development of Vlora International Airport, the Albanian government is stepping up attempts to attract more international visitors, capitalizing on the country’s growing appeal due to its rich cultural history, beautiful landscapes, and affordability.
What Will the Next Decade Look Like?
The worldwide tourism organization predicts that the sector would increase its annual GDP contribution to L749 billion by 2034 and employ more than 314,000 people across the country, with one in every four Albanians working in the industry.
International visitor spending is predicted to surpass L565 billion, with domestic visitor spending reaching over L152 billion.
For additional information, please visit wttc.org.
