Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organisation for Washington, DC, recently convened global tourism leaders to discuss international travel sentiment and growth opportunities. The annual Global Marketplace forum aims to help local tourism and hospitality businesses benefit from international tourism, which remains crucial to Washington, DC's economy. In 2024, international visitors, though only 8% of the total, accounted for 27% of spending.
The forum brought together representatives from key markets, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, India, China, and Australia. Discussions focused on maintaining competitiveness amid fluctuating global travel demand and evolving traveller confidence. Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of DDC, emphasised the importance of staying proactive and globally connected, stating, “Washington, DC benefits from its global influence and our message is clear: we are open, we are welcoming.”
In 2024, tourism in Washington, DC was an $11.4 billion industry, supporting 111,500 jobs and generating $2.3 billion in tax revenue. Despite challenges such as economic uncertainty and policy barriers, markets like Brazil and India show resilience and potential for growth. Meanwhile, Mexico and Australia provide stability, and China presents a long-term opportunity as airlift availability improves.
DDC collaborates with Talking Stick Digital to ensure effective international marketing strategies. The Global Marketplace underscores DDC's leadership in shaping international tourism strategy, with future strategies to be discussed at the annual Travel Rally in May. Upcoming attractions in DC include the 250th anniversary of America, the 10th anniversary of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the opening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration in summer 2026
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