‘Better Borders’ Could Unlock $401 Billion for the Global Economy and Create 14 Million New Jobs - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

A new joint report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and SITA reveals that intelligent border modernisation could add $401 billion to global GDP and create 14 million new jobs across G20, EU, and African Union countries by 2035.

Entitled Better Borders, the study demonstrates how digital technologies and innovative visa systems can transform borders from administrative checkpoints into strategic national assets—enhancing security, stimulating tourism, and strengthening economies.

Smarter Borders, Stronger Economies

With the global Travel & Tourism sector forecast to contribute $16.5 trillion to GDP and account for 12.5% of the global workforce by 2035, WTTC and SITA argue that border innovation is no longer optional but essential.

The report identifies six guiding principles and 18 recommended actions to make travel smoother, safer, and more efficient. Core proposals include:

·         Full digitalisation of visas and travel authorisations

·         Adoption of digital identities and biometric verification to speed up processing

·         Pre-clearance systems to reduce congestion at entry points

·         Cross-ministerial coordination between tourism, security, and finance departments

·         Direct digital engagement with travellers to build trust and streamline communication

Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO, said:

“Technology now allows us to achieve what was once thought impossible: stronger borders and smoother travel. By embracing digital identities, biometrics, and advanced data systems, countries can make journeys faster and more secure at the same time. Governments that act today will see immediate benefits—safer borders, greater traveller confidence, and sustainable economic growth.”

Pedro Alves, Senior Vice President, Border at SITA, added:

“Modern borders must be dynamic, integrated, and seamless—adapting in real time to global events and connecting agencies through a shared view of the traveller. At the core of this transformation is data—trusted identity data. When governments can depend on it, they can act faster, allocate resources better, and enhance both national security and the traveller experience.”

Global Success Stories

Countries such as the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Australia are already demonstrating the benefits of digital transformation in border management:

·         United States: The CBP uses biometric facial comparison at 238 airports and 57 departure points, streamlining entry for millions of passengers each year.

·         United Arab Emirates: AI-driven systems have reduced visa processing times from days to hours while improving accuracy in application handling.

·         Australia: SmartGates using facial recognition now handle 79% of arrivals, cutting wait times dramatically and enhancing traveller satisfaction.

The Future of Travel Begins at the Border

According to the report, 75% of travellers prefer biometric processing over manual checks, and 85% are willing to share data in advance for a faster, smoother journey.

WTTC and SITA are urging governments worldwide to act decisively—investing in “Better Borders” that harmonise security and convenience. The organisations argue that seamless, data-driven travel systems can unlock vast economic and social value while setting new standards for safety, trust, and efficiency in global mobility.

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