OECD analysis: Turkey’s tourism growth slower than rivals
A recent report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) indicates that Turkey' s growth in the number of foreign tourists for the period between 2019 and 2025 is significantly lower than that of certain competing destinations.
While Turkey is expected to see an increase of 21 per cent, Egypt has an estimated growth of a full 47 per cent over the same period.
This places Turkey outside the top 10 list of countries with the highest tourist growth, which may signal shifting dynamics in the global tourism market. The report, which analyses tourism trends leading up to the middle of the decade, highlights that Turkey remains an important destination.
However, the figures indicate a relatively slower expansion in visitor numbers compared to some of its closest regional competitors.
Egypt’s growth percentage, which is almost double at 47 per cent, illustrates this point clearly.
These forecasts from the OECD provide an indication of which countries are currently experiencing the most dynamic increases in international tourism. A lower relative growth rate could lead to increased competition among destinations.
For Turkey, this means the country must work more strategically to attract travellers and maintain its position as a top-tier destination.
The report suggests that other countries, such as Egypt, are succeeding better in attracting new visitors or regaining lost ground following previous challenges.
This underscores the importance of continuous adaptation and innovation within the Turkish tourism sector to meet changing market conditions and traveller preferences. For tourists, foreign residents, and those planning trips to Turkey, such macro trends could potentially have indirect consequences.
A slower growth in tourist numbers might result in less pressure on existing infrastructure and tourist attractions, which could contribute to a more relaxed experience.
At the same time, it may stimulate tourism operators to offer more competitive prices, better service, or new and innovative products to attract more visitors.
Destinations experiencing lower growth are often more motivated to improve their offerings. These long-term forecasts provide valuable insight into Turkey' s place within the global tourism industry.
Although Turkey remains popular, the report emphasises the importance of monitoring market trends for anyone interested in the country' s tourism future.
For travellers, this could mean that Turkey will continue to offer good value and an authentic experience, possibly with a renewed focus on quality and service to stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
It will be important to observe how the country responds to these market signals in the years to come.
Source: Turizmekonomi
