A. Sizing and growth of the sector The tourism economy represents 5% of world GDP International tourism ranks forth after fuel, chemical and automotive products. B. Changing consumer patterns Tourist choices are increasingly influenced by sustainability considerations Traditional mass tourism, like sun-sand resorts has reached a steady growth stage. C. Maximising potential for addressing local development and poverty reduction. -Poverty Reduction Tourism’s ability to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, provide foreign exchange, improve infrastructure, and promote environmental conservation makes it an attractive vehicle for poverty alleviation and local development. -Local Development Interest in local development and community-based tourism by governments has often been motivated by broad economic, social, and environmental goals.