In 2023, Brazil’s tourism industry reported a 7.8% increase, generating R$ 189.4 billion ($38 billion) despite uncertainties about the future of the PERSE program.
December stood out, contributing R$ 18.1 billion ($3.62 billion) to this figure, the highest monthly earnings since 2020, reflecting a 1.1% rise from the previous year.
FecomercioSP predicts sustained growth, driven by improved family finances and government efforts.
The PERSE program, initiated in 2021 to aid event tourism, plays a crucial role in the sector’s success, according to experts.
Transportation rentals surged by 18.3%, accommodation by 17.4%, and airlines by 12.7%, totaling R$ 48 billion ($9.6 billion).
Bus travel, however, saw a 4% decline. The accommodation sector’s growth aligns with a 4% increase in hotel bookings, as per Fohb’s report.
Customer spending rose by 22.5%, boosting overall revenues. Tourism prices climbed 12% annually, largely affected by airfare hikes, exceeding the national inflation rate of 4.5%.
December’s growth was notably powered by a 15.7% increase in accommodation, attributed to families’ greater financial capability for travel and also lifting airline revenue by 4.4%.
However, road transport and travel agencies faced declines, while vehicle rental agencies and the food sector saw improvements.
Growth in the North
December saw notable revenue rises in Acre (12.9%), Rondônia (12.1%), and Amapá (11.1%), with Piauí (17.5%) and Sergipe (10.7%) leading, showcasing growth in North and Northeast regions.
Twenty out of 27 Brazilian states reported positive outcomes, driven by heightened hotel demand and vehicle rentals.
Despite declines, São Paulo, Rio, Rio Grande do Sul, and Ceará contribute over half of Brazil’s tourism revenue, signaling resilience.