PATA predicts more than 800 million tourists arrivals in Asia Pacific by 2027

The Pacific Asia Travel Association's latest mid-year update anticipates over 800 million tourists arrivals in Asia Pacific expected by 2027, with the Chinese market leading growth, followed by steady demand from the USA, South Korea and Japan.

In its Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025–2027 report, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) offers data-driven and nuanced view of the region’s tourism recovery and growth, charting global challenges and evolving travel trends.

In statement, PATA noted an industry backdrop of mounting global challenges, including geopolitical conflicts, economic uncertainty, currency volatility and rising local concerns over mass tourism, providing guidance for stakeholders navigating today’s rapidly shifting travel landscape.

The statement explained that under the medium scenario, international visitor arrivals (IVAs) to Asia Pacific are projected to reach 801 million by 2027, up from 692 million in 2025.

It adds that the latest forecasts, which cover 39 destinations across three scenarios, are critical for industry players seeking to adapt to evolving market conditions.

PATA Chief Executive, Noor Ahmad Hamid stated "this mid-year update goes beyond forecasting, it is a strategic guidance for tourism leaders across the region. As the industry grapples with unpredictable forces from geopolitics to global inflation, staying informed through timely, evidence-based insights is more important than ever.

"With the past six months having brought a wave of developments that directly impacted our industry, this report empowers destinations and stakeholders to anticipate market shifts, prepare for disruption and uncover emerging opportunities, from wellness travel and digital influence to the shifting geography of source markets."

PATA says that China remains the top inbound market, with forecasts suggesting it could welcome up to 148 million visitors by 2027. The United States and Türkiye also feature prominently among leading destinations.

It adds that notably, Türkiye and Mongolia are expected to register the most robust recoveries, surpassing pre-pandemic visitor numbers and setting the pace for regional growth.

For more details, visit www.PATA.org

Image: Singapore's Marina Bay Sands.