The 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) conducted by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed today that the tourism sector in Albania has made a major contribution to the economy, creating more jobs in 2023 than any previous year in history, according to an article published in Breaking Travel News.

According to the latest World Tourism Organization report, the sector's contribution to Albania's GDP reached almost $565 billion last year, which was almost 37% more than the previous high in 2019.

Jobs supported by the sector grew by more than 10% in 2019 with almost 269,000 jobs across the country, representing one in five jobs in Albania.

Spending by international visitors is forecast to grow to more than $493 billion, a staggering 55% increase – on 2019 levels. Spending by domestic visitors is also expected to reach over $107 billion this year.

The records are expected to be broken again in 2024.

The WTTC predicts that GDP will continue to grow to almost $608.5 billion this year, with nearly 10,000 new jobs expected this year.

"Albania is an excellent example of how the tourism sector can promote economic prosperity and the creation of new jobs. The record numbers for Albania represent real progress and real opportunities for thousands of employees," said Julia Simpson, president and CEO of WTTC.

"Albania has appeared on the world stage as a great destination. With the government's support, the country's tourism sector is establishing itself as a growing destination in the global tourism landscape,” she added.

Albania continues to break new records, positioning itself as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

With the construction of Vlora Airport, the Albanian government is stepping up efforts to attract more international visitors, capitalizing on the country's growing popularity thanks to its rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery and affordability.

According to the forecast of the World Tourism Organization, the tourism sector will increase its annual GDP contribution to 749 billion dollars by 2034 and is expected to employ more than 314,000 people across the country.

International visitor spending is projected to reach $565 billion, and domestic visitor spending is expected to reach almost $152 billion.