The Prime Minister, Irakli Kobakhidze said on Tuesday, that in 2023 the income from tourism amounted to more than USD 4 billion.
As he noted during the presentation of the summary report on tourism and aviation, it is expected that revenues from tourism will reach USD 4.5 billion this year. And the international airports of Georgia will serve 6.8 million passengers.
"You all know well that tourism is the most important direction of the Georgian economy, which makes a special contribution to the development and progress of our economy. Along with the economic one, tourism is also given the greatest political weight. Tourism contributes to the deepening of relations between peoples, which is an important factor in ensuring the security of our country. It should also be noted that the development of tourism is suited to Georgian culture and traditions. It is widely known that hospitality is an integral part of our Georgian culture and identity. Welcoming and entertaining guests has always been a matter of special pride for us. During the past years, tourism in Georgia developed at a very fast pace.
After the disruption due to Covid, as a result of the right policies, tourism was soon able to recover, and in 2023, record figures were recorded for the tourism and aviation industry in Georgia. Last year, revenues from tourism amounted to more than USD 4 billion, thus Georgia exceeded the pre-Covid figure by 26%. Tourism employs people and increases their incomes. Since 2012, the turnover of hotels and restaurants has increased 4 times. The number of people employed in the sector increased from 28 thousand to 40 thousand. The average salary of people employed in the sector has tripled. The aviation industry was also characterized by rapid growth. The international airports of Georgia served a record number of 6 million passengers. For the first time in history, one and a half million passengers were registered at Kutaisi International Airport. We have reasonable expectations that 2024 will be even more successful. It is expected that revenues from tourism will reach USD 4.5 billion this year. And the international airports of Georgia will serve 6.8 million passengers", said Kobakhidze.
