Global international tourism grew 5 percent in the first half (H1) of 2025 compared with a year earlier, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) reported Tuesday.

Nearly 690 million people traveled internationally between January and June, 33 million more than in the same period of 2024. Africa saw a 12 percent increase in international tourists, while Asia and the Pacific recorded 11 percent growth in arrivals, led by a 20 percent jump in Northeast Asia. Europe welcomed nearly 340 million international tourists, up by 4 percent.

Outbound spending also surged, with Chinese travelers' expenditure abroad rising 16 percent through March. The United Kingdom, Spain, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea also posted solid growth in overseas spending, at 15 percent, 16 percent, 10 percent, and 8 percent, respectively.

"International tourism continues to see strong momentum and resilience," said UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, noting its contribution to local economies, jobs and livelihoods. He stressed the need to ensure growth is sustainable and inclusive.

UN Tourism expects the growth trend to continue through the second half of this year.