The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) estimates that the global tourism sector could record losses of $2 trillion this year under the impact of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
This estimate, similar to the losses in 2020, comes amid new restrictions imposed especially in Europe to cope with a new wave of the epidemic and the Omicron variant, first detected in South Africa and currently spreading worldwide.
According to the UN agency, international tourist flows are expected to remain 70 to 75% lower this year than before the pandemic.
UNWTO specified that 46 countries are completely closed to tourists, and 55 states are partially open. In contrast, 4 countries have lifted all restrictions: Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.
Due to the uncertainties surrounding the evolution of the epidemic, UNWTO is not providing an estimate at this stage for the number of tourists who might travel abroad in 2022. However, it warns that the recovery will be slow and fragile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the estimated losses for global tourism in 2021?The World Tourism Organization estimates losses of approximately $2 trillion, a figure similar to that recorded in 2020.
How many countries still have their borders completely closed to tourists?According to UNWTO data, 46 countries remain completely closed to international tourism, while 55 states are partially open.
Which countries have removed all travel restrictions?The four countries that have lifted all pandemic-related restrictions are Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.