THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL TOURISM IN THE ECONOMIC GROWTH OF THE WORLD'S LEADING COUNTRIES
Abstract
The article examines the role of international tourism as one of the key drivers of economic growth in leading countries of the world under conditions of global instability and post-pandemic recovery. The purpose of the study is to analyze the impact of the tourism industry on the economies of developed countries by assessing the dynamics of international tourist arrivals, tourism revenues, and the total contribution of tourism to gross domestic product. The research is based on statistical data from international organizations, including the UN World Tourism Organization and the World Travel & Tourism Council, covering the period from 2019 to 2024. The results reveal a sharp decline in tourism activity in 2020–2021 caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and strict travel restrictions, followed by a steady recovery starting in 2022. It is shown that in several countries tourism indicators in 2024 exceeded pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of the sector. The study confirms the leading positions of the United States and China in terms of the absolute economic contribution of tourism, while European countries such as Spain, France, Italy, and Germany demonstrate a high relative dependence on tourism as a source of GDP growth and export of services. Special attention is paid to indirect effects of tourism development, including employment growth, infrastructure development, and stimulation of related industries. The findings indicate that international tourism remains a powerful catalyst for economic growth even after deep global crises. The article concludes that further development of the tourism sector requires effective public policy, investment in sustainability, and digital transformation to strengthen economic resilience and ensure long-term growth.
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