Smarter border management using digital technology could add $401bn to global GDP and create 14m new jobs across G20, EU and African Union nations by 2035, according to a new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The Better Borders report, produced with aviation technology firm SITA, argues that digitalising visas and adopting biometric systems would speed up travel whilst strengthening security. Travel and tourism is forecast to reach $16.5trn in global GDP by 2035 and account for 12.5% of the world’s workforce.
The report sets out six principles and 18 actions for governments, including full digitalisation of visas and travel authorisations, pre-clearing travellers before arrival to reduce border congestion, and building direct digital relationships with travellers. It also calls for greater cooperation between tourism, security and finance ministries.
Gloria Guevara, interim chief executive at WTTC, said: “Technology now allows us to achieve what was once thought impossible: stronger borders and smoother travel. By embracing digital identities, biometrics, and advanced data systems, countries can make journeys faster and more secure at the same time.”
Pedro Alves, senior vice-president, border at SITA, added: “At the heart of this transformation is data. Specifically, the ability to trust the identity data that drives every decision.”
The organisations are urging governments to modernise borders to unlock economic benefits whilst balancing security with seamless travel experiences.
