1 billion international tourists expected in 2012

He opened the ITB Berlin 2012 and greeted the frontiers and all the participants of the event.

This “extraordinary number” will contribute to more jobs, higher income possibilities, and countless opportunities for development, so critical at this time of economic uncertainty, he added.

"With growth comes responsibility," continued Mr. Rifai. Tourism, if properly planned and managed, can be one of the most promising sectors for achieving a more economically, environmentally, and socially-sustainable future, he said.

“Imagine how business models would be transformed if one billion people demanded sustainable practices from hotels and tour operators. Imagine how many would benefit if one billion people bought local produce or hired a local guide. These are small actions, but given the size of our sector, their impact would be huge,” Rifai added.

Referring to the challenges facing international tourism as it reaches one billion, the Secretary General spoke of the many people still facing barriers to travel. “Complicated, lengthy, and overpriced entry formalities are making it extremely difficult for tourists, especially from emerging economies, which are leading growth in terms of outbound markets, to travel,” said Mr. Rifai, adding that obstacles such as burdensome visa processes are not just a barrier to travelers, but to “growth, job creation, and free trade.”

The Secretary General called on the tourism sector to unite around the issue of travel facilitation as a means to stimulate demand and, as a result, create jobs.

“Travel facilitation must top our agenda, and we must speak together on this if we are to be heard at the highest levels of decision-making,” he said.

“It is in this belief that UNWTO has joined the voices of the sector such as the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the World Economic Forum (WEF), to advance this important issue.”

Source: http://www.tourexpi.com