Global Conference Tourism Market Size Likely to Reach at a CAGR of 10.1% By 2033

As per the current market research conducted by the CMI Team, the global Conference Tourism Market size is expected to record a CAGR of 10.1% from 2023 to 2032. In 2023, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of USD 625.6 Billion. By 2032, the valuation is anticipated to reach USD 1,487.2 Billion.

Conference Tourism Market: Growth Factors and Dynamics

• Globalization and Business Expansion: As businesses expand globally, the demand for conferences and meetings to facilitate international collaboration, networking, and knowledge exchange increases. Globalization has led to a rise in cross-border conferences, attracting participants from diverse geographical locations.

• Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies, such as virtual reality, video conferencing, and interactive communication tools, has transformed the conference tourism landscape. Virtual and hybrid conferences have become more prevalent, allowing for increased accessibility and reduced costs, driving growth in the market.

• Industry-Specific Demand: Different industries, including healthcare, technology, finance, and more, have specific needs for conferences to disseminate information, showcase innovations, and foster collaboration. The growth of specialized conferences catering to these industries contributes to the overall expansion of the conference tourism market.

• Innovation in Meeting Formats: The traditional conference format is evolving to meet changing preferences and demands. Interactive sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and experiential elements are becoming integral to conference programs. This innovation enhances participant engagement and attracts a diverse audience.

• Government Support and Infrastructure Development: Governments recognizing the economic benefits of conference tourism are investing in infrastructure, including convention centers and transportation facilities. Supportive policies and financial incentives contribute to the growth of the conference tourism sector, attracting both domestic and international events.

• Focus on Sustainability: Increasing awareness of environmental and social responsibility is influencing the conference tourism market. Event organizers and venues are adopting sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly venues, reduced waste, and carbon-neutral initiatives. This shift aligns with the preferences of environmentally conscious participants and contributes to the overall growth of the market.

• Networking and Relationship Building: Conferences serve as important platforms for networking and relationship building. The emphasis on building professional connections and fostering collaborations in various industries is a key driver for the sustained growth of conference tourism. Attendees value the face-to-face interactions and networking opportunities provided by conferences.

Conference Tourism Market: Partnership and Acquisitions

• In 2023, ITA Group has successfully acquired HTK Limited, a cloud-based solution provider. This strategic acquisition amplifies ITA Group’s technological prowess, particularly in the realms of customer loyalty and engagement. The move positions ITA Group to offer innovative solutions and further solidify its presence in the market.

• In 2021, BCD Group has inked an agreement with Sabre, signalling a strengthened collaboration in technology development. This strategic move aims to enhance their partnership and boost booking volumes, aligning with the shared goal of advancing and expanding their respective capabilities in the travel and technology sectors.

Report Scope

Conference Tourism Market: COVID-19 Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the Conference Tourism Market, with the industry experiencing both positive and negative effects. Here are some of the key impacts:

• Event Cancellations and Postponements: The pandemic led to widespread cancellations and postponements of conferences and events due to travel restrictions, health concerns, and lockdown measures. Many scheduled conferences were either canceled or shifted to virtual formats, causing a significant decline in the overall revenue of the conference tourism market.

• Reduced Travel and Attendee Participation: Travel restrictions, quarantine measures, and health uncertainties resulted in a substantial decrease in attendee participation. Many potential participants were unwilling or unable to travel, impacting the overall attendance numbers for conferences. This reduction in physical attendance also affected the revenue streams associated with registration fees, accommodations, and local tourism.

• Financial Strain on Industry Stakeholders: The conference tourism ecosystem, including event organizers, venues, hospitality services, and local businesses, faced financial challenges. The loss of revenue from canceled or scaled-down events, coupled with increased costs for implementing health and safety measures, created financial strain for many stakeholders in the industry.

• Adoption of Hybrid and Virtual Formats: To adapt to the changing landscape, the conference tourism market has increasingly embraced hybrid and virtual formats. This allows for broader participation, including those who may not be able to attend in person. Incorporating virtual elements enables organizers to reach a larger audience while still offering the benefits of face-to-face interactions for those attending physically.

• Focus on Health and Safety Protocols: Implementing robust health and safety measures has become a priority for the conference tourism industry. Enhanced hygiene practices, social distancing protocols, and vaccination requirements have been introduced to ensure the safety of attendees. Communicating and reassuring participants about these measures is crucial for rebuilding trust in physical attendance.

• Government Support and Policy Measures: Governments and local authorities have played a crucial role in supporting the recovery of the conference tourism sector. Financial assistance, incentives, and the development of clear guidelines for hosting events have helped rebuild confidence among organizers and participants. Collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors contribute to the recovery of the industry.

• Investment in Technology Infrastructure: Investments in technology infrastructure, including robust virtual event platforms and enhanced networking tools, have become essential for the recovery of the conference tourism market.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a mixed impact on the Conference Tourism Market, with some challenges and opportunities arising from the pandemic.

List of the prominent players in the Conference Tourism Market:

• Marriott International Inc.
• Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc.
• AccorHotels
• InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (IHG)
• Choice Hotels International Inc.
• Hyatt Hotels Corporation
• Meliá Hotels International
• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc.
• Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group
• Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts
• Jumeirah Group
• IHG – International Convention Centre Sydney
• Las Vegas Sands Corp.
• Messe Frankfurt GmbH
• Reed Exhibitions
• Others

The Conference Tourism Market is segmented as follows:

By Service

• Transportation
• Food and Lodging
• Recreation
• Others

By Venue Type

• Convention Centres
• Hotels & Resorts
• Others

By Event Size

• Small-Scale
• Medium-Scale
• Large-Scale

By Location

• International Conferences
• National/Regional Conferences
• Local Meetings

Regional Coverage:

North America

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Rest of North America

Europe

• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Russia
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• New Zealand
• Australia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Egypt
• Kuwait
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America