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Thursday, 23 October 2025

WTTC Announces $8 Billion Investment Boost for Italy’s Travel and Tourism Industry

Italy’s tourism industry is set for a powerful transformation following a historic announcement by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) at its Global Summit in Rome. During the closing ceremony, WTTC Members pledged more than $8 billion in new investments, marking one of the largest commitments ever made at a WTTC event — and a major vote of confidence in Italy’s future as a world-leading travel destination.

A Landmark Commitment to Italy’s Tourism Future

Unveiled before global leaders and industry executives, this groundbreaking investment will supercharge Italy’s thriving travel and tourism sector. The announcement underscores Italy’s growing reputation not only as a cultural and leisure powerhouse but also as a premier destination for sustainable investment and innovation.

According to WTTC forecasts, Italy’s travel and tourism industry is expected to contribute $258 billion to the national economy in 2025, supporting over 3.1 million jobs across the country. These fresh investments will help strengthen infrastructure, expand accommodation capacity, and accelerate the sector’s transition toward greener, more digital operations.

Business Travel Leads Italy’s Tourism Growth

A major highlight of Italy’s post-pandemic recovery has been the resurgence of business travel. Corporate visitors spent an impressive $30.8 billion in 2024 — an 18.1% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. This surge has positioned Italy as the seventh-highest business travel spender worldwide.

Adding to this success, the country’s booming MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector hosted nearly 370,000 conferences and events in 2024, up 8.2% year-on-year. This momentum reflects Italy’s growing appeal as a destination for global business gatherings, corporate retreats, and international events.

Fueling Sustainable and Inclusive Growth

The newly announced $8 billion investment will not only enhance Italy’s global tourism competitiveness but also help shape a more sustainable and inclusive future. WTTC’s commitment will channel funds into modernizing infrastructure, boosting transport connectivity, and expanding eco-friendly accommodation across Italy’s most visited regions.

This financial injection is expected to attract both domestic and international investors, create thousands of new jobs, and drive innovation across Italy’s travel ecosystem.

A Global Vote of Confidence in Italy

WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara celebrated the announcement as a powerful symbol of international trust in Italy’s potential. “Today’s announcement is a vote of confidence for Italy,” she said. “More than $8 billion of new investment from WTTC Members sends a powerful signal; Italy is not only a cultural icon but also one of the most exciting and resilient investment destinations in the world. These commitments will fuel job creation, sustainability, and innovation across the country’s travel and tourism sector.”

WTTC Chair Manfredi Lefebvre echoed this sentiment, highlighting Italy’s enduring strength and global leadership in tourism: “Today’s commitment reflects our unwavering belief in Italy’s potential as a leader in global travel and tourism. The substantial investments announced here will not only enhance our infrastructure but also foster a resilient and innovative future for the sector. Together, we can ensure that Italy remains a top destination for travelers while driving economic growth and job creation.”

A Collaboration That Shapes the Future

The WTTC Global Summit in Rome was held in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian National Tourist Board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Supporting partners included Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philanthropy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and Trip.com Group — all sharing a unified goal to promote sustainable growth and investment in Italy’s tourism industry.

As Italy looks ahead to a decade of transformation, these commitments reinforce its position as a global leader in hospitality, innovation, and sustainable tourism — and a destination where culture, business, and opportunity thrive side by side.

For more information, visit: https://wttc.org

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