US arrivals ‘to hit record levels’
The number of foreign visitors to the US this year is forecast to surpass the previous record of 51.2 million achieved in 2000.
US Department of Commerce also projects a further rise to 54 million, generating $113 billion in income in 2007, rising to 63 million in 2010, bringing in $135 billion.
The US hosted 49 million international visitors last year, a 7% increase over 2004.
Visitors from Europe are expected to generate 4% annual growth from 2005 to 2010 to reach 13 million visitors. The UK is projected maintain its rank as the top overseas market.
The forecasts confirm a bounce back international arrivals following the 9/11 terrorist attacks of five years ago and come against a background of continuing industry concerns over tightened security measures and visa requirements for travellers to the US.
US deputy assistant secretary of commerce for services Ana Guevara said: “Today’s forecast is significant for America’s travel and tourism industry as well as our economy. A strong global economy will certainly boost visitation to the United States in the future.
“This is particularly good news after international visitors added nearly $103 billion to our growing economy in 2005.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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