Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
5d ago

UK Tourism Faces £2.2 Billion Shortfall as WTTC Criticizes Policy Barriers

A WTTC report highlights declining visitor spending and accuses the UK government of undermining tourism with increased fees and reduced marketing support.

Image
Image

Overview

  • International visitor spending in the UK fell to £40.3 billion in 2024, a 5.3% decline from pre-pandemic levels, creating a £2.2 billion shortfall.
  • The WTTC attributes the decline to government measures, including the removal of VAT-free shopping, higher air passenger duties, and new electronic travel authorisation fees.
  • VisitBritain’s promotional budget was cut by 44%, impacting efforts to attract international tourists to the UK.
  • Travel and tourism contributed £286 billion to the UK economy in 2024, supporting 4.2 million jobs, yet the WTTC warns of lost competitiveness against other European destinations.
  • The UK government plans to launch a national visitor economy strategy this autumn, aiming to attract 50 million international visitors annually by 2030.