United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Iraq war ‘could cost inbound tourism £2billion’
The Iraq conflict could cost Britain’s inbound tourism industry as much as £2billion, according to a forecast by the Tourism Industry Emergency Response Group (TIER).
The organisation, which was set up after September 11 to respond to major industry issues, says that the war has led to a “clear nervousness about travel, particularly from long haul markets”. Basing its estimate on the current situation, previous experience and economic models it says that the conflict will cost the British inbound tourism industry “something in the range of £1.5bn to £2bn this year, a drop of 15% on 2002.”
TIER points out that even without the war, low consumer and business confidence would have meant that 2003 was “at best..a rather flat year.”
It claims that the longer term outlook is much better: “Tourism is a growth industry and there is strong latent demand for Britain in most markets.”
Members of TIER include VisitBritain, ABTA, British Airways, British Incoming Tour Operators Association (BITOA), VisitScotland, the Wales Tourist Board and the London Tourist Board.
Anna Marie Presutti on San Francisco’s Tourism Revival and Global Outlook
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
CLIA expands trade support with expedition event
Qatar Airways adding Manchester flights
Jet2 unveils Samos as new Greek destination for summer 2026
EU entry-exit system delayed again
ATC strike in Greece could disrupt flights this week