Indigenous-led tourism is set to transform the global travel industry, creating a US$67 billion boom while preserving ancient cultures, says a new report by the WTTC. Olivia Palamountain reports

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has unveiled a landmark report at its Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia, projecting that Indigenous tourism will inject US$67 billion into the global economy by 2034.

The report, titled Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism, highlights the sector's crucial role in driving economic growth, particularly in remote regions, while simultaneously contributing to cultural preservation and community empowerment.

According to the WTTC, the global Indigenous tourism market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% over the next decade.

This growth is not only creating jobs and economic value in remote areas but also promoting and protecting Indigenous peoples' cultures, languages, and lands.

Julia Simpson, WTTC president & CEO, says: "Indigenous tourism is not only about showcasing rich cultural traditions; it's about empowering communities, creating sustainable jobs, and ensuring that Indigenous people are in control of their own stories and economic futures."

The report cites several examples of Indigenous tourism's impact. In Canada, the sector supports nearly 2,000 businesses and over 39,000 jobs, contributing CA$1.7 billion to the economy in 2017.

In Australia, more than 1.4 million international visitors engaged in Indigenous tourism experiences in 2019, marking a 6% year-on-year growth since 2010.

Western Australia is emerging as a particular leader in this field. Robert Taylor, CEO of the Western Australia Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC), says: "Western Australia is well on its way to becoming the premier destination for authentic Aboriginal experiences in the country." He pointed to initiatives such as the "Camping with Custodians" programme, which develops high-quality campgrounds on Aboriginal lands.

The report also underscores the role of Indigenous tourism in preserving cultural heritage. Examples include the Sámi people of Northern Europe developing certification marks to protect their traditions, and Peru's Kipi robot helping to preserve endangered languages.

Despite the sector's growth, many Indigenous operators face challenges in securing funding. Efforts such as Canada's Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF) aim to address this issue, with plans to raise CA$2.6 billion by 2030 to create 800 new Indigenous businesses and over 21,000 new jobs.

As global demand for authentic cultural experiences continues to rise, the WTTC emphasises the importance of supporting Indigenous businesses and ensuring they have access to the resources and funding needed to thrive.

The organisation has committed to supporting the efforts of Indigenous peoples worldwide in shaping their own tourism narratives and ensuring Indigenous tourism remains a thriving, self-sustaining industry.