ASIA PACIFIC. The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has reaffirmed Asia Pacific’s pivotal role in driving the global travel rebound, with international visitor arrivals to the region projected to hit 813.7 million by 2027 under a medium-growth scenario.
These figures are based on the latest Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027, offering in-depth analysis of tourism recovery trends.
Developed in partnership with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Hotel and Tourism Management, the report presents forecasts for 39 destinations in Asia Pacific. It outlines three possible recovery scenarios, including mild, medium and severe, providing essential insights for the travel and tourism industry.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “As global travel continues its strong recovery, the Asia Pacific region remains a key driver of growth. This latest forecast highlights the dynamic shifts in visitor flows, policy interventions and infrastructure improvements that will shape the region’s tourism landscape over the next three years.
“By understanding these evolving trends, destinations can better position themselves for sustainable growth and resilience.”
Key highlights of the study reveal Asia Pacific’s resilient growth trajectory, with international visitor arrivals forecast to grow from an estimated 648.1 million in 2024 to 813.7 million by 2027, reflecting the region’s sustained rebound.
The study underscores how strategic policies are accelerating Asia Pacific’s tourism recovery through streamlined visa processes, enhanced air connectivity and infrastructure upgrades. Notable measures include China’s expanded visa-free transit and Thailand’s ‘Six Countries, One Destination’ initiative.
Destination performance is another key focus, with China on track to reclaim its status as the region’s top inbound destination by 2027, with the USA, Türkiye and Hong Kong SAR projected to be among the top performers.
The study also forecasts China will maintain its position as the largest source market for Asia Pacific, with the USA, Hong Kong, South Korea and India following closely.
Growth is driven by India’s rising middle class and Southeast Asia’s rapid digital adoption, including mobile payments and social media travel trends.
In addition, Asia Pacific’s tourism sector will be shaped by three major forces, including economic shifts, geopolitical factors and technological advancements. Digital innovation, sustainability efforts and new transportation infrastructure are expected to transform travel experiences in the region.
Hamid added, “As we move forward, the industry must remain agile and adaptive to shifting market dynamics. The insights from the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027 will be invaluable for policymakers, businesses and destination marketers aiming to capitalise on emerging opportunities.” ✈
