Oconaluftee Indian Village in North Carolina, just one of many examples of Indigenous tourism in America. (Photo Credit: Eastern Band of Cherokee)

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) published the first report of its kind on October 10, detailing how the world¡¯s Indigenous tourism is projected to contribute USD $67 billion to the global economy by 2034.?

The report, Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism, was published during the council¡¯s Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia.?

It showcases Indigenous tourism as a key economic driver, especially in remote regions and for cultural preservation and land stewardship. The global Indigenous tourism market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.1 percent over the next decade.?

In Western Australia, Aboriginal tourism generated $63.8 million to the region¡¯s GDP in 2021-22, and almost nine in ten visitors participated in the tourism category in the region in 2023-24.?

Yet it¡¯s not just important in Australia.?

In Canada, the sector supports almost 2,000 businesses and over 39,000 jobs, generating CA$1.7 billion to the economy in 2017; a number that has likely grown.?

In Panama¡¯s Guna Yala region, the Guna people rely on Indigenous tourism as a way to create self-sufficiency, offering experiences for travelers to learn about their culture and way of life.?

The report also touches on the challenges that Indigenous operators face in securing funding. Canada¡¯s Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund aims to change that with a goal of raising CA$2.6 billion by 2030, creating 800 new Indigenous businesses and over 21,000 new jobs.?

"Indigenous tourism is not only about showcasing rich cultural traditions; it¡¯s about empowering communities, creating sustainable jobs, and ensuring that Indigenous people are in control of their own stories and economic futures,¡± said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO at the Global Summit.

¡°This report demonstrates the immense potential of Indigenous tourism to drive economic growth, particularly in remote regions, while preserving invaluable cultural heritage,¡± continued Simpson. ¡°As global demand for authentic experiences continues to rise, it is crucial that we support Indigenous businesses and ensure they have access to the resources and funding needed to thrive.¡±

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