WTTC Predicts Record-Breaking Business Travel Spending in 2024: Know about the latest updates

Published on October 10, 2024

In a recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), business travel spending is predicted to surpass pre-pandemic levels, reaching an unprecedented US$1.5 trillion by the end of 2024. This surge comes faster than previously anticipated and highlights the growing importance of face-to-face interactions in the global business landscape.

During the pandemic, the rise of remote working and virtual meetings significantly impacted corporate travel, which experienced a sharper decline than leisure travel. In 2023, leisure travel nearly recovered to 2019 levels, but business travel lagged behind by 5.4%. However, a strong resurgence in 2024 is set to propel business travel spending 6.2% above 2019 levels, breaking records in the process.

U.S. and China Drive Business Travel Recovery

The WTTC’s “2024 Economic Impact Trends Report” reveals that the U.S. and China, two of the largest markets for business travel, are spearheading the recovery. In the U.S., business travel spending is projected to hit US$472 billion in 2024, representing a 13.4% increase over 2019. Meanwhile, China’s business travel expenditure is expected to reach US$211 billion, a 13.1% rise from pre-pandemic levels.

Germany, the third-largest market for business travel, is forecasted to spend US$87.5 billion, slightly above its 2019 figures. The UK and France are also poised to set new records, with spending projected at US$84.1 billion and US$42.1 billion, respectively.

At the WTTC’s 24th Global Summit in Perth, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, emphasized the value of face-to-face business interactions. She stated, “Business travel is not only back but exceeding expectations. While virtual meetings kept people connected during the pandemic, in-person engagements are proving more critical than ever.”

Corporate Travel as an Economic Driver

Paul Abbott, CEO of American Express Global Business, echoed similar sentiments. He noted, “Travel was always a force for good, driving both economic and societal progress. The absence of travel during the pandemic led to economic challenges and rising unemployment. Now, businesses are reinvesting in managed corporate travel to foster growth and strengthen company culture.”

Beyond traditional business meetings, the resurgence of the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector has also contributed to the recovery. As economies rebound globally, businesses are allocating more resources to corporate travel, recognizing its importance in building relationships and driving success. The growing trend of blended travel, where business trips are combined with personal vacations, is further boosting business travel’s appeal.

Key Takeaways:

• Business travel spending is set to hit US$1.5 trillion in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.
• The U.S. and China are leading the recovery, with spending surging over 13% from 2019 levels.
• Germany, the UK, and France are also expected to see record business travel spending.
• Face-to-face business interactions remain crucial for corporate success, despite the rise of virtual meetings during the pandemic.
• Blended travel and the return of MICE events are driving further growth in the corporate travel sector.