The Macro-Economic Picture

Direct Economic Impact

Tourism's direct contribution to the French economy encompasses:

Revenue Generation

• International tourist receipts: €57 billion annually
• Domestic tourism spending: €110 billion
• Business travel expenditure: €25 billion
• Day visitor spending: €15 billion

Employment Creation

• Direct employment: 2.1 million jobs (8% of total employment)
• Indirect employment: 1.2 million additional jobs
• Seasonal positions: 500,000 during peak periods
• Self-employment: 180,000 independent operators

Tax Contributions

• VAT receipts: €18 billion from tourism services
• Corporate taxes: €4.5 billion from tourism businesses
• Payroll taxes: €12 billion from tourism employment
• Tourist taxes: €450 million collected by municipalities

The Multiplier Effect

Tourism's economic impact extends far beyond direct spending:

Supply Chain Effects

• Agriculture: €8 billion in food products for restaurants and hotels
• Construction: €12 billion in tourism-related building projects
• Manufacturing: €3 billion in furniture, fixtures, and equipment
• Transportation: €15 billion in fuel, vehicles, and maintenance

Induced Effects

When tourism employees spend their wages, they support:

• Local retail businesses
• Housing markets
• Entertainment venues
• Healthcare and education services

Studies indicate each euro spent by tourists generates €2.50 in total economic activity.