WTTC Global Summit opens in Malta to discuss tourism growth

The 26th World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit has opened in Valletta, Malta, bringing together over 1,000 delegates and 200 industry leaders to discuss the future of the sector. Key topics include investment, connectivity, artificial intelligence, and sustainable growth.

WTTC research presented at the summit forecasts that the European travel and tourism economy will expand by 3.1% in 2026, outperforming the global growth projection of 2.5%. International visitor spending in Europe is expected to rise by 5.8% this year.

Malta was recognized for its tourism leadership, with Prime Minister Robert Abela noting that the sector contributes approximately 17% to the nation's GDP. The country recorded a 16.8% increase in tourism's contribution to its GDP in 2025, the highest among European economies.

Prominent speakers at the event include former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who emphasized tourism as a tool for global empathy and connection, and Spanish Minister Jordi Hereu, who highlighted Spain's strategic leadership in the sector.