The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has released a groundbreaking report at its 24th Global Summit in Perth, Australia, revealing that Indigenous tourism is projected to contribute $67 billion USD to the global economy by 2034.
The report emphasizes the role Indigenous tourism plays in driving economic growth in remote areas, preserving cultural heritage, and empowering communities.
Indigenous Tourism: A Key Economic Driver
Indigenous tourism is gaining momentum as a vital economic force, offering job creation and economic value in remote regions. It helps preserve Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions, while also offering travellers unique opportunities to engage with these cultures. The global Indigenous tourism market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% over the next decade.
In Western Australia, Aboriginal tourism has surged, with 87% of visitors expressing interest and 36% participating in such experiences in 2023-24. Aboriginal tourism businesses added $63.8 million to the state’s Gross Product in 2021-22, reflecting its growing economic impact.
Canada’s Indigenous tourism sector supports nearly 2,000 businesses and over 39,000 jobs, contributing CA$1.7 billion to the economy. Meanwhile, in Panama’s Guna Yala region, tourism is a key economic driver, helping the Guna people maintain cultural and financial independence.
Empowering Communities Through Tourism
WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson stressed that Indigenous tourism is about more than just cultural experiences. “It empowers communities, creates sustainable jobs, and ensures Indigenous people control their own narratives and economic futures.”
Robert Taylor, CEO of WAITOC, highlighted Western Australia’s commitment to developing Indigenous tourism through the Jina: Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan. Initiatives like the Camping with Custodians program, which creates campgrounds on Aboriginal lands, generate employment and community revenue.
With global demand for authentic cultural experiences rising, the WTTC report underscores the importance of supporting Indigenous businesses with funding and resources to ensure sustainable growth and preserve invaluable cultural heritage.