UN Tourism Urges G20 Ministers to Boost Global Travel with Collaboration and Sustainability, Here’s What You Need to Know

During the G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting in September 2025, the role of travel and tourism in socio-economic development, sustainability, and global peace was recognized on a global scale. Multi partnerships, as emphasized by UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, are essential for developing such opportunities. Addressing the occasion, he further reiterated the global tourism policy framework, which ought to be anchored on inclusion, sustainability, and solidarity.

Partnerships of this type for millions of travelers means easier travel, enhanced connectivity, and the ability to engage with the local ecosystems in a manner that is environmentally and socially responsible.

South Africa’s G20 Presidency Sets the Tone

South Africa’s presidency of the G20 underscored the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” According to UN Tourism, this vision is more than symbolic—it is an actionable roadmap. When countries work together, tourists benefit from smoother visa procedures, stronger infrastructure, and destinations that balance economic development with environmental care.

With the G20 economies responsible for around 70 per cent of all international tourist arrivals and 83 per cent of global tourism GDP, coordinated policies at this level directly shape travel experiences worldwide.

Priorities for Tourists and the Travel Industry

The meeting identified four key priorities that will reshape the travel landscape:

1. Digital Innovation for Travel Startups and MSMEs
   By fostering digital tools, small tourism businesses can offer better services and wider access to global travellers. Visitors benefit from easier booking, personalised services, and digital solutions that simplify travel.
2. Tourism Financing and Investment
   Increased investment ensures stronger infrastructure, from airports to hotels, while also creating sustainable experiences. Tourists will see better transport, improved accommodation, and richer cultural attractions.
3. Air Connectivity for Seamless Travel
   Enhanced connectivity reduces travel times and costs, giving tourists more choice and flexibility in planning trips. Improved routes and efficient transfers make both international and domestic journeys smoother.
4. Resilience for Sustainable Tourism Development
   Resilience strategies ensure destinations can withstand crises—whether natural disasters, pandemics, or economic shocks. For travellers, this means more consistent safety standards and reliable tourism services.

Tourism as a Driver for Developing Nations

Tourism plays a particularly vital role in developing countries, including Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These destinations rely heavily on tourism for employment, foreign exchange, and government revenues. Yet, as Pololikashvili highlighted, tourism remains underfunded in development assistance, receiving less than 0.11 per cent of total global aid.

For travellers, this imbalance often means limited infrastructure, fewer sustainable tourism options, and underdeveloped connectivity. By addressing these gaps, global policymakers can not only boost local economies but also improve experiences for international visitors.

Innovation and Emerging Technologies for Travel

Innovation is central to modern tourism. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart tourism platforms, and virtual experiences can empower small businesses that form the backbone of global travel. For tourists, this means greater personalisation, eco-friendly solutions, and easier access to authentic experiences.

However, the benefits will only reach all travellers if the digital divide is closed. Adequate financing, training, and support programmes are necessary to ensure that technology enhances rather than excludes communities and visitors.

Tourism Growth in 2025

According to the World Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrivals grew by 5 per cent in the first half of 2025. This growth highlights the resilience of global travel, despite economic and geopolitical challenges. For travellers, the rebound means more affordable options and a wider variety of destinations reopening with confidence.

At the same time, the focus on sustainability is shaping how destinations manage this growth. Instead of simply chasing numbers, the emphasis is on creating meaningful and responsible travel experiences that benefit both visitors and host communities.

Africa’s Tourism Potential

South Africa’s leadership of the G20 presidency shone a spotlight on Africa’s growing tourism potential. The continent, home to 19 per cent of the global population and with 70 per cent of sub-Saharan Africa under 30, offers immense opportunities for inclusive tourism growth.

For global travellers, Africa promises authentic cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife encounters. Unlocking investment in Africa’s tourism industry will not only create jobs but also enrich the travel experiences available to visitors worldwide.

Tourism’s Role in the Global Economy

The numbers underline the scale of tourism’s influence:

• Tourism accounted for 3.1 per cent of the GDP of the G20 in 2023.
• The sector contributed to 5 per cent of all exports of the group.
• Tourism represented 23 per cent of all service exports in 2024.

These figures show that tourism is not only about leisure but also a cornerstone of global trade and development. For travellers, stronger tourism industries mean better connectivity, improved infrastructure, and safer, more sustainable travel opportunities.

Towards a Shared Future of Travel

The UN call to G20 leaders emphasises the importance of productive travel. Focusing on investment, innovation, air connections, and sustainability improves travel for millions of tourists. Destinations will have strengthened economies while travelers will have effortless and charming journeys that are now more environmentally friendly. The UN points to international tourism’s growth as a pivotal opportunity. If cultivated properly, travel can enable international exploration, as well as the construction of peace and understanding throughout diverse communities.