The record growth of inbound tourism has surpassed initial VTD projections almost twice. 4.5% growth was forecasted, revenue from inbound tourism was projected to reach LTL 4 billion (EUR 1.1 billion). However, foreigners spent LTL 120 million (EUR 35 million) more. This, according to Director of the State Department of Tourism Dr Raimonda Balniene, suggests that Lithuania has a great potential as a tourist destination.
"Last year foreigners left in Lithuania LTL 4.2 billion (ER 1.2 billion), while Lithuanian tourists spent LTL 3 billion (EUR 0.9 billion) abroad. Hence, we earned LTL 1.2 billion (EUR 0.3 billion) more than we spent. It is by as much as 16% more than in 2012. We can state that tourism is one of the most successful Lithuania's export sectors," said director of VTD.
The balance of outbound and inbound tourism started growing in 2010, it was negative before that. The indicators for 2013 are record high. In fact, the highest in the last four years.
Revenue from inbound tourism exceeded the pre-crisis level of 2008 by 36%. Outbound tourism expenditure amounted to LTL 3 billion (EUR 0.9 billion) and was by 5% greater than in 2012, however, the level of 2008 (-18%) has not been reached.
