Guatemala's tourism sector is on track for significant growth, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasting that international visitor spending will reach GTQ 14.9 billion (US$1.9 billion) by 2026. This marks a 21% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019, highlighting the country's growing appeal as a travel destination. The WTTC's Economic Impact Research indicates that international visitor spending is expected to grow by 9.3% annually in 2026, further solidifying Guatemala's position on the global tourism stage.

Tourism Minister and Director-General of the Guatemala Tourism Institute (INGUAT), Harris Whitbeck, emphasised the importance of this milestone, stating, "International visitor spending exceeding pre-pandemic levels is a significant milestone for Guatemala and a clear indication of growing demand from long-haul markets." He noted that Guatemala's unique offerings, including its rich Indigenous culture and diverse landscapes, continue to attract travellers seeking new experiences.

The WTTC research also projects that by 2026, the travel and tourism sector will contribute GTQ 55 billion (US$7.2 billion) to Guatemala's economy, accounting for 5.6% of GDP. Employment in the sector is expected to reach 585,600 jobs, a 43.9% increase from 2019. Looking ahead to 2036, the sector is forecast to support over 715,000 jobs.

To sustain this growth, Guatemala is enhancing air connectivity and investing in accommodation that reflects its cultural character. This strategic development aims to create economic opportunities whilst preserving the nation's cultural and natural assets

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