G20 backs tourism innovation and connectivity under South Africa’s presidency
G20 Leaders have recognised tourism’s role in shared prosperity and sustainability at the first G20 Summit held in Africa under South Africa’s presidency, adopting a Leaders’ Declaration to advance inclusive and sustainable tourism. Commitments include promoting innovation and investment, enhancing air connectivity and market access, expanding routes, supporting the digitalisation of start-ups and MSMEs, unlocking finance for sustainable tourism, creating opportunities for youth, women, people in vulnerable situations, local communities and Indigenous Peoples, and integrating tourism into national development strategies.
UN Tourism was honoured to be a Knowledge Partner to the South African G20 Presidency and contributed to the Tourism Working Group and the Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Mpumalanga in September, which focused on digital innovation, financing and investment, air connectivity and resilience. The G20 economies represent around 70% of international tourist arrivals and tourism exports, with tourism accounting for 3.1% of G20 GDP, 5% of total exports and 21% of services exports – underscoring the sector’s weight and the potential impact of the commitments.
Source: UN Tourism