Press Release

Commerce Department Forecasts 2007 International Tourism Record

Commerce Secretary Gutierrez in Orlando Touts Strength of Travel and Tourism Sector

ORLANDO—U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today discussed the strength of the U.S. travel and tourism sector during a visit to Universal Orlando Resort to highlight record-breaking travel receipts of $107.4 billion, which are up five percent from 2005.

In addition, Gutierrez announced that the Commerce Department projects a record number of international travelers to the United States in 2007, breaking the historical record set in 2000 and marking a full post-9/11 recovery. He also released a revised international travel forecast that projects a 21 percent increase in travelers over the next five years, reaching 61.6 million visitors in 2011. Overseas markets will significantly contribute to the projected growth, especially South America, led by Brazil (28 percent) and Asia, led by China (60 percent) and India (28 percent).

In addition, Gutierrez announced that 51.1 million international visitors traveled to the United States in 2006, with nine countries breaking records from previous years, and an overall increase of four percent over 2005.

"International travel to the United States continues to show growth over growth as it reaches near record highs in the number of international visitors to our country," said Gutierrez. "The travel and tourism industry is key to generating new jobs in places like Orlando and in further strengthening the U.S. economy. America's parks, beaches, and resorts, like Universal Orlando Resort, make our country one of the most attractive places to visit in the world. We are optimistic about the next five years, projecting record visits in 2007, as more international travelers make Orlando and other cities across America their travel destination."

Gutierrez visited Universal Orlando Resort where he met with new employees and saw first-hand the park's expansion, an illustration of the economic benefits of tourism to the local and national economy.

2006 Travel and Tourism Fact Sheet