The number of foreign visitors to the US this year is forecast to surpass the previous record of 51.2 million achieved in 2000.
US Department of Commerce also projects a further rise to 54 million, generating $113 billion in income in 2007, rising to 63 million in 2010, bringing in $135 billion.
The US hosted 49 million international visitors last year, a 7% increase over 2004.
Visitors from Europe are expected to generate 4% annual growth from 2005 to 2010 to reach 13 million visitors. The UK is projected maintain its rank as the top overseas market.
The forecasts confirm a bounce back international arrivals following the 9/11 terrorist attacks of five years ago and come against a background of continuing industry concerns over tightened security measures and visa requirements for travellers to the US.
US deputy assistant secretary of commerce for services Ana Guevara said: “Today’s forecast is significant for America’s travel and tourism industry as well as our economy. A strong global economy will certainly boost visitation to the United States in the future.
“This is particularly good news after international visitors added nearly $103 billion to our growing economy in 2005.”
Report by Phil Davies
