India Global Reps

Trade & Media Engagement

Trade development remains a key focus, with extensive outreach to agencies for product development, FIT and GIT itineraries, and website listings. Multiple trainings and follow-ups with major operators (e.g., Veena World, Akbar Travels, Thrillophila) are advancing Southern product integration.

Media activity generated five clippings and continued coverage tied to thematic storytelling (e.g., New Orleans music and Route 66 content). Preparations for Global Media Marketplace 2026 are underway, with five confirmed Indian participants.

Market Trends & Travel Demand

Indian travelers are increasingly experience-driven, seeking culture, cuisine, entertainment, and wellness travel. Growth is expanding beyond metro cities, with Tier 2 and 3 markets driving outbound demand. Air connectivity remains strong despite temporary geopolitical disruptions, and digital adoption continues to accelerate trip planning.

Longer-haul travel remains resilient, supported by repeat visitation and long-term U.S. visas. Emerging AI-driven travel platforms are also reshaping booking behavior.

Key Takeaways & Next Steps

• Prioritize repeat travelers with diverse, multi-state itineraries
• Expand engagement in Tier 2 and Tier 3 source markets
• Strengthen trade partnerships for product development and distribution
• Leverage experiential themes (music, cuisine, culture) in storytelling
• Continue media outreach tied to high-impact content themes
• Align with digital-first booking behaviors and AI-driven platforms
• Maximize visibility through GMM 2026 participation and follow-up opportunities

The Indian tourism sector, contributing 7% to GDP, is projected to reach the global average of 10% by 2033, growing at a 6.1% CAGR to USD 38.12 billion. WTTC forecasts 2025 economic contributions exceeding USD 257 billion, with employment surpassing 48 million and international visitor spend hitting USD 37.4 billion. Luxury travel demand is surging, with 72% of affluent travelers planning higher spending, prioritizing wellness, personalization, and immersive culture over traditional extravagance.

Aviation growth remains a cornerstone: India handled 174 million passengers in 2024, led by low-cost carriers, with international travel exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The sector is set for 18–20% revenue growth in FY2026 and aims to have the world’s youngest fleet by 2028. Key developments include Air India’s $400M fleet retrofit and IndiGo’s long-haul expansion to 10 global cities with new codeshare agreements.

Digital transformation is accelerating, with biometric ePassports introduced and an increased reliance on AI trip planning—84% of travelers use AI tools for booking and inspiration. Social media and influencer marketing dominate, with YouTube and Instagram capturing 78% of travel ad spend. Experiential and sports-driven travel trends are growing, with cricket and cultural events shaping itineraries.

India remains the #2 overseas market for U.S. tourism, recording over 1 million arrivals in the first half of 2025. With a booming middle class, evolving travel preferences, and expanding air connectivity, India’s role as a leading global travel source market is set to strengthen significantly in the decade ahead

Trade strategy centers on building distribution through top travel companies, OTAs, and airline partnerships, supported by targeted training workshops in Mumbai and New Delhi, webinars (including gamified formats), and co-op campaigns. Product development will focus on multi-generational family trips, luxury travel, and road trips, with tailored itineraries for the U.S. South.

PR and consumer outreach will target affluent audiences via mainstream, lifestyle, and travel media, plus influencer collaborations. Quarterly press releases, curated newsletters, and media fam trips will amplify awareness, while social media content will highlight unique experiences and Southern hospitality.

KPIs track trade engagement (100+ operators trained, 10 newsletters), media reach and impressions, and product inclusions. With full in-market representation, the plan aims to convert India’s high travel intent into increased visitation and economic impact for the Southern USA.