US Maintains its Position as Global Leader in Retail Tourism

New data showed that the United States remains the preferred choice for travelers looking to shop during their vacation.

According to a study from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) revealed during Virtuoso Travel Week, retail tourism was worth $178.2 billion in 2019, which equates to six percent of the travel and tourism sector.

In total, the WTTC said retail tourism can represent more than 15 percent in some destinations.

“Retail tourism is a thriving market segment of the Travel & Tourism sector in the U.S.,” WTTC President Julia Simpson said. “For millions around the world, shopping is one of life’s great pleasures.”

The data found the U.S. was the largest contributor of retail tourism to gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019, totaling $34.7 billion. Despite the global pandemic, America retained the No. 1 spot in 2020 with $17.5 billion.

In 2021, retail tourism contributed $23.9 billion to the country’s economy.

“The pandemic impacted both travel and retail industries severely, but as the world reopens, this report shows how the retail experience can become a journey too,” Simpson continued. “Our latest findings on the U.S. reinforce its allure as a shopping mecca, highlighting the vital role that retail tourism plays in the country’s Travel & Tourism sector.”

WTTC research also found that governments incentivizing the retail segment with tax-free shopping have seen tourism revenues boom.